Latest Updates

Bruins' Rask Ties Team Record

News:Tuukka Rask, who stopped 23 of 25 shots in Saturday's shootout loss to the Lightning, tied a Bruins' record in the process, by playing in his 70th game this season, TSN.ca reports.

Analysis: It was the most games played by a Boston goalie since Eddie Johnston saw action in 70 games back in 1963-64. While Tuukka Rask finished this past season with respectable enough numbers - a 34-21-13 record, 2.30 GAA and .922 save percentage -- it was a step back from his Vezina Trophy effort in 2013-14, in which he posted a 36-15-6 record, while recording a 2.04 GAA to go along with a .930 save percentage and a league-high seven shutouts. While Rask is entrenched as the B's top goalie, the team's failure to qualify for the playoffs this season figures to lead to a fair amount of roster turnover as the 2015-16 campaign approaches.

Bruins' Rask To Get Nod With Playoffs On The Line

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice for morning skate and is in line to start Saturday's game against the Lightning, ESPN Boston's Joe McDonald reports.

Analysis: With the Senators winning earlier Saturday to claim a playoff spot, the Bruins will have to defeat the Lightning and rely on the slim probability of the Penguins losing to the Sabres in order to earn their way into the postseason. Those stakes will put some serious pressure on Tuukka Rask to come up huge, which he hasn't been able to do in his last two turns. He's taken losses to the Capitals and Panthers in those outings, giving up three and four goals, respectively.

Rask, Bruins Choking Away Playoff Hopes

News:Tuukka Rask gave up four goals on 30 shots Thursday in a 4-2 loss to the Panthers.

Analysis: A brutal loss for Tuukka Rask and the Bruins, as it dealt a massive blow to their playoff hopes. They're not eliminated, but they're going to need a ton of luck to make it in. It's probably not going to happen, but the Bruins will likely roll Rask out again Saturday in Tampa Bay as they try to put their best foot forward in the regular-season finale.

Bruins Go Back To Rask On Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on the ice for warmups and will be in the crease Thursday against the Panthers.

Analysis: The Bruins wasted a huge opportunity to put themselves on solid ground for a playoff spot by losing to the Capitals on Wednesday, so the team will need to lean on Tuukka Rask for the second game in as many nights. While some concerns about fatigue might be warranted, Rask had been outstanding prior to Wednesday's loss, winning his previous four games while allowing two or fewer goals in each of those appearances. He should still make for a fine play against the low-scoring Panthers.

Bruins' Rask Stops 30 In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals on 33 shots in Wednesday's 3-0 loss to the Capitals.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask had been on a hot streak having won four straight heading into Wednesday's matchup, but his teammates were never able to break through on the other end of the ice. He's almost guaranteed to get the remainder of the starts in net for the Bruins as they continue to battle for the last playoff spot in the East.

Bruins Roll With Rask On Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask is slated to start Wednesday's game against the Capitals, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis: With the Bruins in must-win mode as the team tries to secure a playoff spot, look for Tuukka Rask -- who has earned wins in his last five appearances -- to start all three of the team's remaining regular season contests.

Bruins' Rask Starting Saturday's Game

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes for Saturday's game against the Maple Leafs, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis: With wins in four straight turns and no more than two goals allowed in each contest, Tuukka Rask is getting hot precisely when the Bruins need him most. He'll have a prime opportunity to extend the winning streak to five games Saturday, as the Maple Leafs have been utterly punchless since the beginning of January. They rank 24th in the league in scoring with just 2.56 goals per game, making them vulnerable to any goalie, much less a sizzling one like Rask.

Rask. Bruins Stay Hot

News:Tuukka Rask saved 35 of 37 shots and came away with a 3-2 win over the Red Wings on Thursday -- his fourth straight win.

Analysis: Over those four games, Tuukka Rask has given up just five total goals. As we reach the end of the season, Rask's stats -- which have lagged all year -- are getting back into their normal range, and now that he finally looks right in net again, the Bruins' potential playoff opponents have to be feeling some fear.

Rask Makes 22 Stops As Bruins Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 22 saves on 24 shots Tuesday in a 3-2 win over the Panthers.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask and the Bruins came into the third period trailing, but the Boston offense picked up a pair of goals to flip the script while the Finnish goalie held strong. He's now given up only three goals in his last three starts en route to three wins as the Bruins work to secure their playoff spot.

Bruins Turn To Rask On Tuesday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who will square off against Roberto Luongo on Tuesday, is past a migraine episode that he dealt with Saturday, as evidenced by his 30-save effort in Sunday's 2-1 overtime win over the Hurricanes.

Bruins' Rask Past Saturday's Migraine Issue

News:Tuukka Rask's early exit from Saturday's game against the Rangers is being referred to as a migraine episode by csnne.com.

Analysis: Initially, it was thought that Tuukka Rask was dealing with a case of dehydration, but Rask -- who returned to make 30 saves in Sunday's 2-1 overtime win over Carolina -- relayed that a migraine headache caused him to leave Saturday's contest early. While it's an issue that could conceivably crop up again for Rask in the future, he's past this episode and poised to remain busy down the stretch run for the Bruins, who are battling for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Bruins' Rask Earns Win Sunday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who was forced out of Saturday's win over the Rangers in the second period due to a likely case of dehydration, bounced back nicely Sunday, in a game which saw the Bruins move three points ahead of the Senators (who have a game in hand) for the second wild card slot in the Eastern Conference. The B's have six more regular season contests and given how tight thing are for them in terms of playoff seeding, we wouldn't be surprised if Rask starts the remainder of the team's slate.

Bruins' Rask Good To Go

News:Tuukka Rask -- who left Saturday's win over the Rangers in the second period due to a likely case of dehydration -- will start Sunday's game against the Hurricanes.

Analysis: Prior to his exit from Saturday's 4-2 win over the Rangers, Tuukka Rask stopped all 14 shots that he faced in 20:10 worth of action. Evidently, Rask is over his possible case of dehydration and thus slated to start Sunday, as well as the bulk of the B's remaining contests down the stretch run.

Bruins' Rask Pulled After Battling Dehydration

News:Tuukka Rask was removed in the second period of Saturday's win over the Rangers due to a likely case of dehydration, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis: Coach Claude Julien said that Tuukka Rask was battling some "symptoms" of dehydration, but acknowledged that the goalie is fine and would be able to travel to Carolina with the club for Sunday's game. It's unclear at this time if Rask or backup Niklas Svedberg, who entered Saturday's game in relief, will start against the Hurricanes. Despite leaving early Saturday, Rask still managed to pick up the victory after he left with a 3-0 lead, with the Bruins ultimately prevailing with a 4-2 victory.

Bruins' Rask Leaves Game Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask left Saturday's start against the Rangers shortly after the start of the second period, likely due to an undisclosed injury, Joe MacDonald of ESPN Boston reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was on his game prior to his departure, stopping all 14 shots he faced while his mates staked him to a 3-0 lead. Assuming that replacement Niklas Svedberg can limit the Rangers to two or fewer goals, Rask will still escape with the win, but that's probably the least of the Bruins' concerns right now. The team has yet to provide an update on the star netminder, and may not reveal further information regarding a possible injury until after the game concludes. The Bruins will play again Sunday in Carolina.

Bruins' Rask Aims To Get Back On Track Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the crease for Saturday's game against the Rangers, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has taken five consecutive losses while conceding three or more goals in three of those outings. Those kind of duds have been increasingly common this season for Rask, who has seen his ratios take a sizable hit from the lofty marks he posted from 2011-13. Even so, Rask is still sitting on a 2.34 GAA and .921 save percentage, numbers that still make him worthy of an activation most nights. He'll look to get back on the winning track against the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers, who will counter with Henrik Lundqvist in the net in his first game back from a neck injury.

Bruins' Rask Drops Fifth Straight

News:Tuukka Rask took his fifth consecutive loss Thursday against Anaheim, giving up three goals on 32 shots in a 3-2 overtime defeat at the hands of the Ducks.

Analysis: A tough result for Tuukka Rask, who carried a 2-1 lead well into the third period before giving up the game-tying goal to Corey Perry with 39 seconds remaining. He then proceeded to allow Ryan Getzlaf to score the winner in overtime. If they don't find their game, and soon, Rask and the Bruins could very well end up playing their way right out of a playoff spot; they're barely holding on right now.

Bruins' Rask Confirmed To Start

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on the ice for warmups and will get the start Thursday against the Ducks, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will man the net for his fourth straight start, while Frederik Andersen gets the nod in the opposite net for the visitors. Over four career outings against the Ducks, Rask is 1-3-0 with a 3.46 GAA and .864 save percentages, both of which represent his worst marks against any opponent.

Bruins' Rask Yanked In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask was pulled in the second period after allowing four goals on 12 shots in Sunday's 5-3 loss to the Lightning.

Analysis: That's now four straight losses for Tuukka Rask -- including two outings that featured five and four goals against -- which drops his record to 29-19-11. The 28-year-old still sports solid ratios with a 2.33 GAA and .921 save percentage, but hasn't been able to find his usual level of consistency. With the Bruins fighting for their playoff lives, Rask figures to see nearly every start down the stretch, but his play has been shakier of late.

Bruins Stick With Rask On Sunday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask -- who also started Saturday's shootout loss to the Panthers -- will start both games of a Bruins' back-to-back set for the seventh time this season. With the B's clinging to a playoff seed in the Eastern Conference, Rask will no doubt remain busy down the stretch. The team's next back-to-back situation arrives on March 28 (against the Rangers) and March 29 (against the Hurricanes).

Boston's Rask Makes 24 Saves In Shootout Loss

News:Tuukka Rask made 24 saves in Saturday's 2-1 shootout loss to Florida. He has lost his last three starts.

Analysis: He allowed just a single goal in the shootout, but that's all it took. His game this season hasn't been up to Tuukka standards, but he's still just one win shy of 30. He'll need to be outstanding until season's end to keep the Bruins in the postseason.

Bruins' Rask Will Start Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will start between the pipes in Saturday's game against the Panthers, George Richards of the Miami Herald reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will be in search of his 30th win on the season when he takes the ice Saturday. Although, he enters Saturday's game coming off of two-straight losses but can still take pride in his .923 save percentage and 2.31 GAA.

Rask Tagged For Five As Bruins Lose

News:Tuukka Rask gave up five goals on 26 shots in Thursday's loss to the Senators.

Analysis: What looked like it was going to be a goalie duel turned into a shootout (in the literal sense rather than the overtime-deciding one), as neither Tuukka Rask nor Ottawa's Andrew Hammond could keep the puck out too effectively Thursday. But Hammond was a little better, and so the Bruins were stuck with an ill-timed loss, as the Sens are coming right up on their tails for the Eastern Conference's final playoff spot.

Bruins' Rask Back In Action

News:Tuukka Rask (general soreness) led the Bruins on the ice for warmups and will start Thursday against the Senators.

Analysis: As the demotion earlier in the day of emergency goalie call-up Jeremy Smith foretold, Tuukka Rask is seemingly healthy after coach Claude Julien elected to hold him out of Tuesday's game against the Sabres, with Niklas Svedberg finding himself on the wrong end of a shootout loss. The Bruins will get their No. 1 netminder back for a huge game against the Senators, who are only four points behind the Bruins for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. Rask has looked strong while winning four of his previous five starts, but he could be in for a tough fight Thursday, as opposing netminder Andrew Hammond has ripped off victories in 11 of his 12 starts this season, allowing two goals or fewer on each occasion.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask (general soreness) is expected to be back in the net Thursday against the Senators, Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was held out of Tuesday's game against the Sabres for what the Bruins called "general soreness," but it was never believed to be a serious issue. He was able to participate in Wednesday's practice, but with the Bruins holding an optional gameday skate Thursday morning, Rask's availability against the Senators likely won't be known until warmups. Assuming he gets the nod, Rask is certainly worth keeping active, as he's won four of his last five games while holding the opposition to two goals or fewer each time out.

Bruins' Rask Practices

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was held out of Tuesday's game against the Sabres, but his presence on the ice Wednesday suggests that the general soreness that shelved him Tuesday is not a major issue in advance of Thursday's road game against Ottawa.

Bruins May Rest Rask On Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask's teammate, Niklas Svedberg, is in line to start Tuesday's game against the Sabres, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis: With Tuukka Rask having played back-to-back contests against the Penguins and Capitals this past weekend, it looks like Svedberg will get a chance to man the Boston net on Tuesday. Moreover, per Mark Divver of the Providence Journal, Rask might be under the weather, a notion supported by the Bruins' recall of Jeremy Smith on Tuesday.

Bruins' Rask Out With 'General Soreness'

News: The Bruins ruled Tuukka Rask out for Tuesday's game against the Sabres due to "general soreness."

Analysis: The nature of the injury wouldn't normally seem to imply a lengthy absence, so Tuukka Rask should be viewed as day-to-day for the time being. It's still likely that he'll be ready to play in Thursday's pivotal matchup against the Senators, though an official announcement on his status for that game might not come until pregame warmups. In Rask's absence Tuesday, the Bruins went with Niklas Svedberg, with AHL call-up Jeremy Smith serving as the backup netminder.

B's Rask To Sit Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask (undisclosed) will be unavailable for Tuesday's game against the Sabres.

Analysis: Per a report from the Providence Journal's Mark Divver earlier in the day, Tuukka Rask is believed to be dealing with an illness, though the Bruins haven't provided any information on his condition. For the moment, it seems likely that Rask will be able to return to the crease Thursday against the Senators, but the Bruins should provide confirmation within the next day or so. In any event, the team should manage just fine without him against the league-worst Sabres. Niklas Svedberg will garner the starting nod in place of Rask, while Jeremy Smith was recalled on an emergency basis from AHL Providence earlier in the day and will be slated for backup duties.

Bruins' Rask Makes 36 Saves In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 36 of 38 shots in Sunday's loss to the Capitals.

Analysis: An outstanding performance from Tuukka Rask, who lost for just the first time in five games. The 28-year-old falls to 29-17-10 on the season with a .924 save percentage and 2.26 GAA. He's playing terrifically right now, so he'll be back in the win column in no time. Keep him rolling.

Bruins Stick With Rask On Sunday

Analysis: The Bruins will continue to roll with Tuukka Rask -- who turned aside 30 shots in a 2-0 win over Pittsburgh on Saturday -- as they look to extend their five-game winning streak. During that span, Rask has won his last four turns, while allowing just five goals.

B's Rask Shuts Out Penguina

Analysis: That's four straight victories for last year's Vezina winner, who has allowed just five goals total during that span. Tuukka Rask has been righting the ship at the best possible time for the Bruins, who now enjoy a six-point cushion in the wild card race. To date, Rask has gone 29-16-10 with a 2.26 GAA (12th best in the NHL) and a .924 save percentage (seventh best).

Bruins' Rask Gets The Nod Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes Saturday against the Penguins, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: It's unclear if Tuukka Rask will get the call for the second half of the Bruins' back-to-back set Sunday in Washington, but his chances of getting the call would surely increase with a strong outing against a high-powered Penguins attack. Rask has had mixed results over his career against Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin & Co., posting a 4-5-1 record, 2.61 GAA, and .913 save percentage over 10 outings. That shouldn't deter Rask's fantasy owners from using him Saturday, as he enters the crease with save percentages of .930 or better in his last three outings.

Bruins, Rask Outlast Bolts In Shootout

News:Tuukka Rask turned away 35 of 37 shots through regulation and overtime Thursday, then was perfect on two shootout attempts to earn a 3-2 win over Tampa Bay.

Analysis: The Bruins have the Lightning's number, having won 10 straight games against them, and Tuukka Rask has been heating up in general of late. He's won three straight games, posting save marks of .936 or higher each time, and has been at .906 or better in seven consecutive games (with at least a .929 in six of those).

Bruins Roll With Rask

News:Tuukka Rask is in line to start Thursday's game against the Lightning, the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who was sharp while turning away 39 of 40 shots in Tuesday's win over the Sens, will square off Thursday against a depleted Lightning squad that lost three key players (Braydon Coburn, Ondrej Palat and Cedric Paquette) to injuries in a costly 1-0 win over Montreal on Tuesday.

Rask's 39 Stops Lead Bruins To Victory

Analysis:Tuukka Rask's really starting to round into form now. He's posted save marks of .929 or better in five of his last six starts -- and a .906 in that sixth one -- en route to a 4-1-1 record in that span. The B's need him to be the Rask of old if they're going to make a deep playoff run, especially because they're unlikely to have any home-ice advantage in the playoffs.

Bruins Turn To Rask On Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask is slated to start Tuesday's game against the Senators, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who gave way to Niklas Svedberg in Sunday's 5-3 win over the Red Wings, will square off against Craig Anderson on Tuesday. Look for Rask to see the bulk of the Bruins' starts down the stretch, though the team does have another back-to-back set this weekend, Saturday against the Penguins and Sunday against the Capitals.

Bruins' Rask Scores Comeback Win

Analysis: It looked as though Tuukka Rask would be handed a tough loss after the Bruins trailed by a goal in the final five minutes of regulation, but Brad Marchand game through with the tying score with 15 seconds remaining. Marchand then potted the game-winner in overtime to give Rask his 26th win of the season. Since returning from a one-game absence due to an illness last weekend, Rask has turned in three credible outings against the Coyotes, Flames, and Flyers. With the Bruins still fighting to hold off a slew of teams for the final wild-card spot, don't be surprised if coach Claude Julien sticks with Rask in the crease for Sunday's tilt with the Red Wings.

Bruins' Rask Manning The Net Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the crease for Saturday's game against the Flyers.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has been far from the consensus No. 1 fantasy goalie option he seemed to be heading into the year, as he's won only two of his last 10 turns to bring his record to 25-16-10 for the season. While the record is still respectable and his ratios (2.35 GAA, .920 save percentage) remain strong, fantasy owners were surely expecting a little more from the Vezina Trophy winner, who went 36-15-6 in 2013-14. He'll still make for a reliable play on most occasions, including Saturday's matinee tilt with the Flyers, but it's worth wondering if we'll ever see him return to top-flight form before the season draws to a close.

Bruins Expected To Roll With Rask On Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask is in line to start Thursday's game against the Flames, the Calgary Sun reports.

Analysis: With the Bruins clinging to the No. 2 wild card seed in the Eastern Conference, Tuukka Rask figures to remain busy going forward, though it's worth noting that the team has back-to-back contests this weekend, against the Flyers on Saturday and the Red Wings on Sunday.

Rask, Bruins Lose To Calgary In Shootout

News:Tuukka Rask gave up three goals on 32 shots Thursday in a shootout loss to the Flames.

Analysis: He took a loss to fellow Finnish netminder Karri Ramo -- his 10th overtime defeat on the year. Tuukka Rask now has more total losses (26) than wins (25) on the year -- a major disappointment to fantasy owners who drafted him as an elite option in net. In fact, Rask has won just two times in his last 10 appearances (nine starts).

Bruins' Rask Starting Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins onto the ice for warmups before Thursday's game against the Flames, ESPN Boston's Joey McDonald reports.

Analysis: As expected, Tuukka Rask will start between the pipes, looking for his 26th win of the season. With the Bruins in danger of missing the playoffs for the first time since 2006-07, Rask figures to be busy down the stretch. It remains to be seen whether he'll start both games in an upcoming back-to-back this weekend, as the Bruins are about to hit a very busy stretch of the schedule, with Thursday's contest marking the first of seven games in a span of just 11 days.

Bruins' Rask Sharp In Return

Analysis: After missing the first game of the Bruins' weekend back-to-back Friday with an illness, Tuukka Rask was stellar in his return to the net, keeping the Coyotes off the board for the first 50 minutes. Though he recently put a stop to a six-game losing streak, Rask has appeared to be in form his last three times out, holding the opposition to two or fewer tallies.

Bruins' Rask Returns From Illness Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask (illness) will receive the start in goal for Saturday's game against the Coyotes, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: As the reassignment to the minors of Friday's emergency goalie call-up, Jeremy Smith, would indicate, Tuukka Rask is seemingly fully recovered from the bout with an illness that left him unavailable a day earlier. Rask recently snapped a six-game losing streak prior to sitting out Friday, but despite the downturn in his performance, he still makes for an excellent fantasy choice against the Coyotes, who have dropped eight in a row to threaten the Sabres and Oilers for the NHL's worst record.

Bruins' Rask Could Play Saturday

News: With the Bruins demoting Jeremy Smith to AHL Providence, Tuukka Rask (illness) should be available in at least a backup capacity Saturday against the Coyotes, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was scratched from Friday's win over the Devils with the illness, as No. 2 netminder Niklas Svedberg led the Bruins to victory while Smith slotted in as his backup. Coach Claude Julien indicated after the game that Rask had been feeling better prior to being scratched, and it appears his condition continued to trend in the right direction overnight. Still, the Bruins' goalie plans for Saturday's game likely won't be clarified until pregame warmups.

Bruins' Rask Out With Illness Friday

News:Tuukka Rask (illness) will not be available for Friday's game against the Devils.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask missed the Bruins' morning skate due to the illness and wasn't able to make enough progress in the afternoon for the team to clear him for action. As a result, Niklas Svedberg will pick up a rare start, with AHL Providence call-up Jeremy Smith slotting in as his backup. The Bruins will assess Rask's condition Saturday morning before determining if he'll be able to play later that evening against the Coyotes.

Bruins' Rask Dealing With Illness

News:Tuukka Rask is feeling under the weather, and he remains at the Bruins' hotel ahead of Friday's game against the Devils, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: It sounds as if Tuukka Rask is unlikely to play, in which case Niklas Svedberg would likely get the start. The team may need to recall Malcolm Subban (or another goalie) from AHL Providence, and with Boston heading into the first game of a back-to-back, it's possible Subban could get a start this weekend. Rask is considered questionable for Friday's game, and a decision may not come until pregame warmups, according to NHL.com's Mike Morreale.

Rask, Bruins Take Another Loss

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 26 of 28 shots Tuesday, but was stuck with a 2-1 loss against Eddie Lack and the Canucks.

Analysis: Lack outplayed Tuukka Rask, making 40 saves to send the Finnish netminder to his sixth loss (four in regulation) over his last seven starts. The Bruins have had a tough time getting things going on a consistent basis, and Rask's fall-off from Vezina-caliber netminding is certainly one of the factors there.

Bruins' Rask Confirmed For Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on the ice for pregame warmups and will make the start in goal Tuesday against the Canucks.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask broke a six-game losing streak over the weekend against the Blackhawks, stopping 26 of 28 shots in the 6-2 victory. Despite his disappointing performances the last handful times out, Rask should make for a worthy fantasy play in his return to TD Garden. The visiting Canucks will start Eddie Lack in goal.

Bruins Likely To Stick With Rask On Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask is on track to start Tuesday's game against Vancouver, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is thus in line to appear in his 18th straight game and we'd expect him to continue to remain busy moving forward. That said, the Bruins' next set of back-to-back games are Friday (against New Jersey) and Saturday (against the Coyotes), so Rask may give way to Niklas Svedberg in one of those contests.

Bruins' Rask Starting Sunday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is making his 17th straight appearance in net and his 26th in 27 games. He will need to be up to the task Sunday, as he faces a Blackhawks squad averaging 2.85 goals per game on the season.

Bruins' Rask Sharp In Win

Analysis: It was a big win against one of the league's top scoring teams for both Tuukka Rask and the Bruins as it snapped a six game losing streak, five of which Rask were responsible for. Although he's struggled recently, the netminder still sports solid rate stats, with a 2.37 GAA and .919 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Struggles In Relief Duty

News:Tuukka Rask stopped seven of nine shots in relief of Malcolm Subban in Friday's loss to the Blues. Rask was later pulled and Subban re-entered the game.

Analysis: A rough night for Tuukka Rask, who has given up 13 goals in his last four appearances. While Subban will get credit for the loss Friday, Rask is winless in his last six outings, dropping his record to 23-15-9 on the season. His .919 save percentage and 2.38 GAA are impressive, but the victories are hard to come by right now. Rask will need to be clutch down the stretch if Boston hopes to hold on to their playoff spot.

B's Rask Falls To Oilers In Shootout

News:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals on 30 shots before falling 4-3 in a shootout to the Oilers on Wednesday.

Analysis: It was widely speculated that Malcolm Subban would make his regular season NHL debut in this one, but it was Tuukka Rask who ended up getting the nod. At 23-15-9 through 46 starts, he hasn't been horrible, but those who used a precious early draft pick on last year's Vezina winner have undoubtedly been disappointed by his inconsistency this season.

Bruins Rask To Start Against Oilers

News:Tuukka Rask led the team on the ice for warmups and will get the start Wednesday against Edmonton.

Analysis: Though there was some thought coach Claude Julien might go with Malcolm Subban for the starting nod Wednesday, he'll stick with the reigning Vezina Trophy winner for another game. Tuukka Rask has dropped his last four starts while giving up four goals apiece in his last two turns, but he still makes for an excellent play against the floundering Oilers.

Bruins' Rask Falls With Two Seconds Left In OT

News:Tuukka Rask dropped his fourth straight game Monday against the Flames, ceding four goals on 27 shots in a 4-3 overtime loss.

Analysis: The Bruins staked Tuukka Rask to a 3-0 lead early in the second period, but the goalie suffered an uncharacteristic meltdown, allowing three unanswered tallies to send the game to overtime. It looked as though the outcome would end up being decided in the shootout, but the Flames' T.J. Brodie got a shot past Rask with two seconds remaining in the extra period to spoil his night. While Rask deserved a better fate in the first two tilts of his four-game losing streak, he's been less stellar his last two times out, delivering sub-.900 save percentages in each.

Boston's Rask Confirmed As Starter

News:Tuukka Rask is the confirmed starter for Monday's game against Calgary.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is 23-15-7 on the season with a 2.32 GAA, though the Bruins have fallen in each of his last three appearances. He's coming off of a rough outing Friday in Vancouver, when he allowed four goals on 24 shots in a 5-2 defeat.

Bruins' Rask Submits Stinker Friday

News:Tuukka Rask let in four goals on 24 shots Friday against the Canucks, taking his third consecutive loss.

Analysis: Despite what the losing streak would normally imply, Tuukka Rask had been stellar in the two outings that preceded Friday's, posting save percentages above .930 in losses to the Canadiens and Stars. He looked much more human against the Canucks, with a couple of defensive mistakes by the Bruins contributing to his downfall. By and large, Rask has been impeccable since the start of 2015, so fantasy owners need not overreact to the three-game losing skid. It's still wise to keep him active when the Bruins head to Calgary on Monday.

Bruins Expected To Start Rask On Friday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate and is expected to start against the Canucks on Friday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask had his best month of the season in January, finishing with a 1.61 GAA and .949 save percentage and finishing with a 7-1-3 record. He has been pretty good to start February as well, and will look to continue his success Friday against Vancouver.

Bruins' Rask Will Start Friday

News:Tuukka Rask will get the start in net Friday against the Canucks.

Analysis: As expected, Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes Friday when the Bruins take on the Canucks. Rask is 23-14-7 with a 2.28 GAA and a .923 save percentage on the season, and remains a solid start in all formats.

Bruins' Rask Forced Into Action Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask was called upon for relief duty in the second period of Tuesday's 5-3 home loss to the Stars. He made 20 saves and allowed one goal with his opponent shorthanded.

Analysis: Niklas Svedberg, the team's No. 2 goalie, saw the puck go past him three times in the first period which paved the way for Tuukka Rask to try to stop the bleeding. Rask has only picked up one win in four February appearances, despite letting in a mere seven goals over that span.

Bruins' Rask Loses Second Half Of Back-To-Back

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 31 of 33 shots Sunday against the Habs, but ended up taking his 13th regulation loss of the season in the 3-1 defeat.

Analysis: Manning the net for the second time in as many days, Tuukka Rask delivered another credible performance, but was outdone by opposing goalie Carey Price, who captured the game's first star. Despite ending the weekend on a sour note, Rask's reemerge as top-flight goalie since the calendar flipped to 2015 is highly encouraging for fantasy owners. After finding himself in the middle of the pack among goalies in most statistical categories over the first few months, Rask now ranks eighth in the NHL in save percentage (.923) and 12th in GAA (2.29).

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start Sunday

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start Sunday against the Canadiens, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask bested the Islanders on Friday by setting aside 39 of the 40 shots that came his way. He finished the month of January with a 7-1-3 record, posting a 1.61 GAA and .949 save percentage. He's been nearly as good at the start of February, and will look to keep things rolling with another solid outing in net Sunday, assuming he indeed receives the start.

Bruins' Rask: 39 Saves In Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 39 saves in Saturday's 2-1 win over the Islanders on Saturday night. "He's been in a zone, really good for us and focused and intense," said Bruins' head coach Claude Julien after the game.

Analysis: He seemed to see every puck all night long and is playing like a demon. He's carrying a heavy workload, but when you're hot, you're hot. He's 8-2-1 in his last 13 starts. You know what to do.

Bruins' Rask Starting Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will start in goal Saturday against the Islanders, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will step in for his 10th consecutive start and look to repeat his performance from last Thursday, when he held the Islanders to just two goals on 45 shots. Malcolm Subban could man the net Sunday against Montreal for the second half of a back-to-back set.

Bruins' Rask Stops 22 In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals on 25 shots in Wednesday's 3-2 loss to the Rangers.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was on a tear until Wednesday, so his subpar performance is nothing to worry about at this point. He's currently 22-12-7 on the season, and ranks fifth in the NHL with 1,113 saves to date.

Bruins To Start Rask On Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the crease for Wednesday's game against the Rangers, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will oppose backup Cam Talbot, as Henrik Lundqivst was ruled out of the contest after taking a puck to the throat a few days prior. The Bruins netminder has dominated against the Rangers like few other teams throughout his career, posting a 7-3-3 record, 1.91 GAA and .937 save percentage over 13 games.

Bruins' Rask Makes 30 Saves In Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 30 saves on 31 shots in Saturday's win over the Kings.

Analysis: Someone call the cops, this guy just got away with highway robbery. Tuukka Rask is red-hot right now, posting a 3-0-1 record in his last four appearances, stopping 143 of 149 shots in that span (.960 save percentage). Rask is an automatic roll on a Bruins team that has won eight of their last 10 games.

Bruins Confirm Rask For Saturday Start

News:Tuukka Rask has been confirmed as the starter in goal for Saturday's showdown with the Kings.

Analysis: The atmosphere should be electric at the TD Garden on Saturday evening in a match between two of the league's elite teams over the last half decade. Tuukka Rask has of course been instrumental in the Bruins' sustained excellence, but had been a surprising liability at some stages earlier this season. That no longer appears to be the case, as he's resurfaced as perhaps the league's top netminder over the last month, going 6-1-3 with a 1.67 GAA and .947 save percentage thus far in January. The Kings are certainly an imposing threat, but they shouldn't deter Rask's fantasy owners from using him with gusto.

Rask Saves 43 As Bruins Defeat Isles

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 43 of 45 shots Thursday in a 5-2 victory over the Islanders.

Analysis: That marks Tuukka Rasks's fifth straight game allowing two or fewer goals, and his eighth in the last nine. It may not surprise you to learn that with results like those, he's put together a 6-1-2 record in that span. His season stat line looks more and more Rask-like by the day.

Bruins' Rask Confirmed To Start

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on the ice for pregame warmups and has been confirmed as the starter for Thursday's game against the Islanders, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask ended the first half in strong fashion, surrendering only five goals over his last four starts. His season ratios (2.35 GAA, .919 save percentage) are gradually starting to approach what was expected of him heading into the year, but he'll face a stiff test Thursday in his quest to continue that improvement, as the Islanders rank second in the NHL in scoring.

Bruins' Rask In Line For Thursday Start

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was the first goaltender off the ice following Boston's morning skate, which puts him on track to start Thursday night. He will face a stiff test from an Islanders team that has lost just once from Jan. 6 and currently sits second in the league with 3.17 goals per game.

B's Rask Takes Shootout Loss

News:Tuukka Rask played exceptionally Wednesday, turning aside 34 of 36 shots on the road against Colorado before eventually falling 3-2 in a shootout.

Analysis: Another gem for Tuukka Rask, who's now allowed just five goals over his last four games, a span in which he's had a whopping 135 shots fired his way. He's unfortunately picked up just two wins in those four games, but if he keeps up the spectacular play, Rask and the Bruins will have a whole pile of victories to look forward to in the second half of the season. Through 39 appearances, the Finnish backstopper owns a .919 save percentage and 2.35 GAA, numbers that have been continually improving since the calendar flipped to 2015.

Bruins' Rask To Start In Goal Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes Wednesday night against the Avalanche.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask appears to have rebounded from his early-season struggles, and has now led the Bruins to victory five of the last six times he's taken the ice. The 27-year-old netminder owns a .946 save percentage in January, and will take a 2.37 season GAA into Wednesday's showdown against Semyon Varlamov.

Rask Stops 36, Bruins Down Stars

News:Tuukka Rask allowed just a single goal on 37 shots Tuesday in a 3-1 win over Dallas.

Analysis: He actually gave up the first goal of the game, but locked things down afterward while the B's scored the next three. Tuukka Rask has looked like a stud again lately -- over his last seven games, he's 5-1-1 with a .954 save percentage. Here's hoping you bought low or didn't sell low while his stats were lagging.

Bruins Likely To Stick With Rask On Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask appears on track to start Wednesday's game against the Avs, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: It looks like Tuukka Rask -- who stopped 36-of-37 shots in Tuesday's 3-1 win over the Stars -- will get back-to-back turns, with the Bruins' next game after Wednesday's tilt not until Jan. 29 against the Islanders, thanks to the upcoming NHL All-Star break.

Bruins' Rask Will Start Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask has been confirmed as the starter in goal Tuesday against the Stars.

Analysis: As expected after he was the first goalie off the ice at the Bruins' morning skate, Tuukka Rask will look to get back in the win column after seeing his four-game winning streak snapped over the weekend by the Blue Jackets. Kari Lehtonen is expected to get the start in goal for the opposition.

Bruins' Rask Likely Tuesday Starter

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start Tuesday's game against the Stars.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask had a four-game winning streak snapped Saturday against Columbus in game that saw him turn away 28-of-30 shots, but overall last season's Vezina winner appears to have turned things around in advance of the upcoming NHL All-Star break.

Bruins' Rask Confirmed For Thursday Start

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on the ice for pregame warmups and will thus receive the start in goal Thursday against the Rangers, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: The Rangers will counter with backup Cam Talbot rather than No. 1 goalie Henrik Lundqvist. Over his previous 12 games against the Rangers, Tuukka Rask has gone 6-3-3 with a 2.07 GAA and .932 save percentage.

Bruins Likely To Start Rask On Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start Thursday's game against the Rangers.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has won his last three decisions, allowing six goals in that span, while the Bruins are on a four-game roll overall, a turnaround that has to offer encouragement for those who had been frustrated by Rask's subpar numbers this season.

Bruins' Rask Wins Ugly

News:Tuukka Rask gave up three goals on just 19 shots, but came away with a 4-3 win Tuesday against the visiting Lightning.

Analysis: Well, it's his third consecutive win, but it's certainly not an impressive one. Tuukka Rask's inconsistency this year has been rather maddening -- all the more because it comes from a guy who was expected to remain among the best goalies in hockey this year. If there's a silver lining to this season so far, it's that Rask has now gone 10 straight appearances (nine starts) without a regulation loss, going 6-0-3 in that span.

B's Rask Picks Up Win Saturday

Analysis: That's two straight wins for the Finn netminder, who's now 17-10-6 on the year to go with a 2.47 GAA and .914 save percentage -- numbers that are uncharacteristically off the mark for last year's Vezina winner. With the back-to-back wins, owners are hoping that Tuukka Rask is in the midst of turning the page this season after dropping four of his last five games prior to Wednesday's win over Pittsburgh

Bruins' Rask Draws Matinee Start

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on the ice for pregame warmups and will draw the start in goal for Saturday's tilt with the Flyers.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask returns to the net after ceding Thursday's start to backup Niklas Svedberg. We're still waiting on Rask to flatten out those ratios and reemerge as a top-flight fantasy goalie, but he's at least complied over his last two turns. He's limited the Hurricanes and Penguins to one and two goals, respectively, posting a cumulative .960 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Allows Two Goals In Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 37 saves on 39 shots in Wednesday's 3-2 overtime win over the Penguins.

Analysis: After falling in overtime in three straight appearances, Tuukka Rask was finally able to pull out an OT win of his own Wednesday. He's now 16-10-6 on the season with a .913 save percentage and a 2.52 GAA.

Bruins' Rask Draws Wednesday Start

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on to the ice for pregame warmups and will start in goal Wednesday against the Penguins.

Analysis: The month of December had not been kind to Tuukka Rask, as he posted a lowly .896 save percentage. January hasn't gone much better, as the Bruins have lost the first two contests in which he's occupied the net. He'll look to turn things around against the Penguins -- a team Rask and the Bruins fell to in an overtime loss back on Nov. 24.

Bruins' Rask Likely Wednesday Starter

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at the Bruins' morning skate, indicating that he is in line to receive the start Wednesday evening against the Penguins, Seth Rorabaugh of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: With Tuukka Rask on track to start the first of back-to-back contests for the Bruins, Niklas Svedberg is thus a candidate to draw the nod in net on Thursday at home against New Jersey.

Bruins' Rask Strong In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 35 of 36 shots but was tagged with the 2-1 shootout loss to the Hurricanes on Sunday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has now lost three in a row, giving up seven goals in that span. The 27-year-old is now 15-10-6 with a 2.54 GAA and has seen a drop in his results as the team struggles. The former Vezina winner should be able to turn it around at some point, but Rask will need to rely on his teammates to get more in the win column.

Bruins Stick With Rask

News:Tuukka Rask is slated to start Sunday's game against the Hurricanes.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask and his teammates -- who will try to quickly bounce back from a 3-2 overtime loss to the Senators on Saturday -- will square off against former Bruin Anton Khudobin, who will tend goal for Carolina on Sunday.

B's Rask Takes OT Loss Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask took the loss 3-2 in overtime Saturday, allowing three goals on 36 shots to Ottawa.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has been rather dreadful since play resumed after Christmas, allowing 11 goals on 92 shots over four appearances -- a four-game span that's featured just one win. It's no secret that the Bruins have been struggling as a whole this season (as evidenced by the fact they're currently sitting out of a playoff spot, behind teams like Florida and Toronto), and Rask has been partially to blame with a 2.58 GAA and .910 save percentage, numbers that come in significantly worse than his career marks of 2.18 and .910. He's still racked up 15 wins, but hasn't performed anywhere close to his lofty fantasy draft expectations this season. With all the experience and veteran leadership on the B's, though, a turnaround for Boston and their Vezina-winning goalie is a very real possibility, one that Rask owners should keep their fingers crossed for as the second half of the season commences.

Bruins' Rask Gets Matinee Start

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes for Saturday's afternoon tilt with the Senators, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Saturday's contest will mark the first of a back-to-back set for the Bruins, so don't be surprised if coach Claude Julien tabs backup Niklas Svedberg for Sunday. Tuukka Rask simply isn't playing well enough to justify a massive workload, as he's produced a rather pedestrian 2.58 GAA and .910 save percentage to supplement his 15-10-4 record. His pristine career track record suggests those ratios will improve eventually, but the season is rapidly approaching its midpoint.

Bruins' Rask To Start In Goal Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes Wednesday against the Leafs, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask allowed four goals the last time he faced the Leafs, which led to an early hook, but he did beat them once back in October. He's had his fair share of struggles this year, but the Bruins have now won three of the last four games he's been in the net.

Rask Bounces Back As Bruins Defeat Wings

News:Tuukka Rask put a stop to 28 of 30 in Monday's 5-2 win over the Red Wings.

Analysis: A much-needed quality outing from Tuukka Rask, who'd given up nine goals on just 68 shots over the last three games -- an .868 save mark. We're still waiting for him to truly get on track, and we can't say this is the one that'll do it -- he's had plenty of other two-goal outings. And he hasn't given up fewer than two goals in a game in more than in a full month, dating back to Nov. 28.

Bruins' Rask Starting Monday

News:Tuukka Rask will start between the pipes Monday against the Red Wings, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has allowed three goals in each of his last three appearances, and hasn't recorded a save percentage over .900 over that span. He'll look to turn in a good performance Monday to get back on track.

Bruins' Rask Falters In Relief

News:Tuukka Rask came on in relief of starter Niklas Svedberg during the second period of Saturday's loss to the Blue Jackets, surrendering three goals on 15 shots faced.

Analysis: After Kevin Connauton's second-period goal gave the Jackets a 3-1 lead, coach Claude Julien called upon Tuukka Rask from the bench with the hope that he might be able to salvage the game for the Bruins. Instead, he let Nick Foligno beat him for a power-play goal less than three minutes after his entry into the game, effectively ending any chances of a Bruins comeback. While Rask wasn't the recipient of a loss Saturday, the continued ratio damage doesn't inspire much confidence that he's close to returning to last season's form.

Bruins' Rask Unlikely To Play Saturday

News: Niklas Svedberg was the first goalie off the ice at Saturday's morning skate, indicating Tuukka Rask will not receive the start later in the evening against the Blue Jackets, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Coach Claude Julien has leaned heavily on Tuukka Rask in December, so he'll allow the netminder to get a little bit of an extended rest here on the heels of the Bruins' three-day break for Christmas. Svedberg hasn't officially been confirmed as the starter for Saturday's game just yet, but Rask's fantasy owners should prepare to have another option ready in goal in any case.

Bruins' Rask Not Sharp, But Wins

News:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals on 25 shots Tuesday against Nashville, but came away with a 5-3 victory.

Analysis: Rask's won his last two starts despite posting sub-.900 save marks in both. We're still waiting for him to, well, look like Tuukka Rask again. The Finnish netminder has been off his game all year long, with only occasional flashes of his usual brilliance, and the return of Zdeno Chara to the lineup has not magically fixed things.

Bruins' Rask To Get Start Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on the ice for pregame warmups and will thus make the start Tuesday against the Predators, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: He should be the favorite to come away with the victory on his own home ice, especially with the Predators rolling their backup goalie in Carter Hutton. Tuukka Rask has shown improved play of late, but still sits on a rather bland 13-10-3 record, 2.52 GAA and .913 save percentage over 26 outings this season.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start in goal Tuesday against the Predators.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask started Sunday against Buffalo and allowed three goals in a 4-3 overtime victory. The 27-year-old has been solid of late, allowing three or fewer goals in each of his last six outings.

Bruins' Rask Snaps Streak In Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 25 saves on 28 shots in Sunday's 4-3 win over the Sabres.

Analysis: The Bruins offense has been struggling recently, so despite solid play in net Tuukka Rask entered Sunday's game with four straight losses. While his numbers are down from last season, with a 2.52 GAA and .913 save percentage to go with a 13-10-3 record, the 27-year-old is still one of the better options out there and should benefit when the offense in front of him starts to produce.

Bruins' Rask Will Start Sunday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in net for Sunday's game against the Sabres, Joe McDonald of ESPN reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will be looking for his 13th win of the season against the Sabres on Sunday. He enters the game with a save percentage of .914 to go along with the 2.50 goals that he allows per game.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start Sunday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate, making him the likely netminder Sunday against the Sabres, Mike Loftus of the Patriot Ledger reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will receive his second consecutive start in net, with a day off before the Bruins' next game Tuesday. He stopped 25 of the 27 shots he faced against the Jets on Friday, and will have a good matchup in the Sabres on Sunday.

Bruins To Start Rask On Friday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the crease for the Bruins on Friday in Winnipeg, Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun reports.

Analysis: Since Tuukka Rask received the night off in the Bruins' last game Wednesday against the Wild, he'll slot back into the net in search of putting an end to his three-game losing streak. He's been a victim of some poor offensive support in the last two games of that stretch, as he's stopped 67-of-71 shots (.943 save percentage) in shootout defeats to the Senators and Predators. He'll oppose the Jets' Michael Hutchinson in Friday's tilt.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Jets On Friday

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 25 of 27 shots but it wouldn't be enough as the Bruins lost 2-1 to the Jets on Friday.

Analysis: Considered one of the best fantasy backstoppers heading into this season, Tuukka Rask has now earned just a single victory in his last seven starts. Last year's Vezina Trophy winner has managed just 12 wins so far in 2013-14 -- a far cry from his 36 wins of last season -- but it hasn't all been his fault, as the loss of David Krejci to a groin injury for most of the season and Jarome Iginla to free agency has left the B's lacking in the offense department. Nonetheless, Rask is a must-start nearly every time he takes the ice, as Boston is bound to start clicking offensively, spelling more wins for the Finn.

Bruins' Rask Stops 38, Topped In Shootout

News:Tuukka Rask made 38 saves on 40 shots Tuesday against the Predators, but allowed the lone shootout goal to take the loss.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask and fellow Finn Pekka Rinne dueled impressively in this one, with Rinne ultimately proving a notch better in the shootout. Rask has now lost three straight and seven of his last nine, and though a lot of those losses haven't been his fault, he largely hasn't been his usual dominant self. He's currently on pace for his worst GAA since 2010-11 and the worst save percentage of his career (with the exception of a four-game cup of coffee in 2007-08).

Bruins' Rask Confirmed For Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins onto the ice for pregame warmups and has been confirmed as the starter in goal for Tuesday's game against the Predators, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: It will be a battle of the reigning Vezina Trophy winner (Tuukka Rask) and the goalie most likely to win those honors this season (Pekka Rinne). Rask hasn't played well by his standards this season, but did submit a strong outing his last time out Saturday against Ottawa, stopping 29 of 31 shots before falling in a shootout.

Bruins' Rask Set To Start Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask is lined up to start Tuesday's game against the Predators, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice following the Bruins' morning skate, which sets him up to start Tuesday night. Rask has struggled in December, but he will need to be sharp Tuesday with his offense facing Predators goalie Pekka Rinne, who currently leads the NHL in GAA and save percentage.

B's Rask Bested In Shootout By Sens

News:Tuukka Rask made 29 of 31 saves but ended up losing 3-2 to Ottawa in a shootout Saturday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has struggled to get in the win column lately, grabbing just two victories in his last eight starts. Still, it's hard to bet against last year's Vezina winner, as the wins should eventually come now that Zdeno Chara is back healthy and David Krejci (groin) is set for a return as early as next week. Rask now owns a 2.55 GAA, .911 save percentage and a 12-9-2 record this season.

Bruins Will Start Rask On Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins onto the ice for pregame warmups and will receive the start in goal Saturday against the Senators.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has struggled to return to his Vezina-winning form from a season ago, as he'll enter Saturday's matinee affair with a middling 2.59 GAA and .910 save percentage over 22 starts. The Senators haven't been playing especially well lately, however, which should at least make him the prohibitive favorite to come away with the victory Saturday.

Rask Stops Just 18 As Bruins Lose

News:Tuukka Rask couldn't stop the Blackhawks' winning streak Thursday, giving up three goals on 21 shots in a 3-2 loss.

Analysis: We keep waiting for Tuukka Rask to show us his normal, elite self, but his stats continue to linger in the realm of mediocrity thanks to outings like this one. Rask's finished with sub-.900 save marks in three of his last four games, and unsurprisingly has been stuck with losses in all three.

Bruins Tab Rask For Thursday Start

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the crease Thursday against the Blackhawks, Joe MacDonald of ESPN Boston reports.

Analysis: It's typically a no-brainer for Tuukka Rask's fantasy owners to use him whenever possible, but if ever there were a reason to give pause, a game against the surging Blackhawks might be it. The Blackhawks enter play Thursday with an NHL-best seven-game winning streak and have been victors in nine of their last 10 games, as the offense has finally awoken over the last few weeks. Tread carefully, as Rask is only a week removed from a seven-goal disaster against the Sharks.

Bruins' Rask Bounces Back Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask gave up two goals on 26 shots in Saturday's win over the Coyotes.

Analysis: A good bounce back effort from Tuukka Rask, who had lost two straight games, surrendering 10 goals in that span. While he remains a great fantasy option, Rask's individual stats have dropped off significantly, as his .912 save percentage and 2.56 GAA are no longer among the best in the NHL. Don't be too worried,though, as Rask is still 12-8-1 on the season and should get back on track following a good effort against Arizona.

Bruins' Rask Gets Starting Nod Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will start in goal for the Bruins Saturday night against the Coyotes.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask allowed a dreadful seven goals in Thursday's start against the Sharks and owns a 2.59 GAA over 20 games played this season -- well off the 2.04 clip he posted last year. He'll look to bounce back against a Coyotes squad that is scoring just 2.30 goals per game.

Bruins' Rask Obliterated Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask surrendered a career-high seven goals on 44 shots in Thursday's loss to the Sharks.

Analysis: After the Bruins raced to a 2-0 lead in the first period, San Jose blew the visiting Bruins out of the Shark Tank thereafter, with Tuukka Rask taking it on the chin as a consequence. The netminder had previously dominated the Sharks (3-0, 1.33 GAA entering Thursday), but poor defense and some less than stellar work on his part to clot the bleeding resulted in Rask noticing huge hits to his ratios. His GAA now sits at a meager 2.59 for the season, while his save percentage fell to .912.

Bruins Expected To Start Rask On Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to receive the start in goal Thursday versus the Sharks, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis: The Bruins went with Niklas Svedberg on Tuesday in Los Angeles, so it stands to reason that coach Claude Julien will turn back to Tuukka Rask against the Sharks. Rask been a victor in each of his previous three career starts against the Sharks, posting a 1.33 GAA and .960 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Takes Loss Monday

News:Tuukka Rask dropped his seventh game of the season Monday against the Ducks, stopping 25 of 28 shots in the defeat.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask seemed to round back into form in November with a 7-2-1 record, 1.90 GAA and .935 save percentage, but didn't get off to a very promising start in his first outing of December. Prior to Monday's outing, the netminder hadn't put up a save percentage lower than .900 since Nov. 12, so it's probably fair to grant Rask a respite for this one. The Bruins will play their second game of a back-to-back Tuesday in Los Angeles, where coach Claude Julien could turn to backup Niklas Svedberg.

Bruins' Rask Phenomenal In Win

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all but one of the 36 shots he faced in Friday's overtime win over the Jets.

Analysis: What an outstanding effort from Tuukka Rask, who picked up his first win in three games. Rask is now 11-6-1 on the season, allowing three goals or less in his last five starts. With an impressive .919 save percentage and 2.31 GAA, Rask is once again proving to be one of the best fantasy goalies this season.

Bruins' Rask Starting Friday

News:Tuukka Rask will start in net against the Jets on Friday, Fluto Shizawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask stopped 30 of the 33 shots he faced Monday against the Penguins, losing the game in overtime. He now sits at 10-6-1 on the season with a .915 save percentage and 2.40 GAA on the season.

Bruins' Rask Allows Three In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask made 30 saves but suffered the loss 3-2 in overtime on Monday against the Penguins.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask got off to somewhat of a slow start to the season, but he's been rounding back into form of late. The loss dropped him to 10-6-1, but he's an impressive 6-2-1 in November and can't really be faulted for allowing three goals to a high-powered Penguin team.

Bruins' Rask Likely Starter

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at the Bruins' morning skate Monday, indicating that he is on track to start the evening's game against the Penguins.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is thus in line to have an opportunity to bounce back from Saturday's 2-0 loss to Montreal, though he'll be doing so in front of a Boston squad that's dealing with several injuries.

Rask Loses To Habs Again

News:Tuukka Rask made 21 saves in a 2-0 loss to the Canadiens on Saturday night.

Analysis: The Habs really have his number -- he's posted a 3-12-3 regular-season record against them over his career. But then again, he can't win if his teammates don't score. He's still a fine play overall -- this was just his third loss in his last 10 games started. Just avoid les bleu, blanc et rouge.

Bruins Start Rask

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who shut out the Blues in his last outing on Tuesday, will thus look to change his luck against Montreal, a team that has given him trouble in the past. To date, Rask has recorded a career 3-11-3 record against the Habs.

Bruins' Rask Likely To Start

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start Saturday's game against Montreal, ESPN.com reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask owns a career 3-11-3 record against Montreal, but with Niklas Svedberg having started Friday's game against the Blue Jackets, it appears as though the Bruins are prepared to give Rask -- who shut out the Blues on Tuesday -- a chance to change his luck against the Habs on Saturday.

Bruins' Rask Finally Gets First Shutout

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all 33 shot attempts by the Blues in Tuesday's 2-0 victory for his first shutout of the season.

Analysis: It's been a bit of an inconsistent start to the year by the usually clockwork-like Tuukka Rask, who racked up seven shutouts last season and five in the lockout-shortened campaign before that. But most of his struggles came in October -- since the calendar turned to November, he's got a much more Rask-like 1.86 GAA and .935 save percentage. And he's 6-1 in that span.

Bruins' Rask Leads Team On Ice

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins onto the ice for pregame warmups and will make the start Tuesday against the Blues, Joe Haggerty of CSNNE.com reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is coming off a dominant showing against the Hurricanes over the weekend, during which he held the opposition to one goal on 34 shot attempts. He'll face off against Brian Elliott on Tuesday.

Bruins' Rask Set For Tuesday Start

News:Tuukka Rask is on track to start Tuesday's game against the Blues, Amalie Benjamin of The Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice following Tuesday's morning skate, which lines him up to start Tuesday night. Rask got off to a bit of a slow start, but he is 5-1-0 and has posted a .921 save percentage in six November starts.

B's Rask Picks Up Win Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask allowed just one goal on 34 shots en route to a 2-1 victory over the visiting Hurricanes on Saturday.

Analysis: Aside from the disaster that was four goals on 12 shots in his last start against Toronto, Tuukka Rask has been rolling, with Saturday's win coming as his fifth in six starts. The B's have certainly needed him of late, as injuries to key players David Krejci (lower body) and Zdeno Chara (knee) have put that at a disadvantage in the goal-scoring department. Rask's .908 save percentage and 2.56 GAA aren't quite elite, but the 27-year-old should only get better as the season rolls on -- something owners will be counting on as they likely used a high draft pick on him in drafts this year.

Bruins' Rask Starting Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins onto the ice for pregame warmups and will make the start Saturday against the Hurricanes, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Coach Claude Julien passed over Tuukka Rask in favor of backup Niklas Svedberg for Thursday's game against the Canadiens, but he'll entrust his No. 1 starter to get back on track against the Hurricanes. Carolina will counter with the sizzling Cam Ward in the opposite net.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to get the start in net for the Bruins on Saturday against the Hurricanes, the team's official site reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who gave way to Niklas Svedberg on Thursday in Montreal, is thus on track to try to help the Bruins stop a two-game slide in which they've been outscored by a combined mark of 11-2.

Bruins' Rask Allows Four Before Getting Pulled

News:Tuukka Rask was pulled during the second period of Wednesday's 6-1 loss to the Maple Leafs.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals in the first four minutes of the second period Wednesday, and was yanked in favor of Niklas Svedberg. Rask had been playing well lately, having strung together four straight wins, so his poor performance should be due to Rask just having a bad night.

Bruins' Rask To Start In Goal Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask will start in goal Wednesday against the Maple Leafs.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes for the second time in three days, and will look to lead the Bruins to their fourth straight victory with him in the net. The team will play the second game of a back-to-back set Thursday, so it seems likely that Niklas Svedburg would get the starting nod for that contest in favor of Rask.

Bruins Could Start Rask On Wednesday

News: Though coach Claude Julien labeled his starting goalie for Wednesday's tilt with the Maple Leafs a game-time decision, Tuukka Rask is expected to get the nod for the Bruins.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask didn't take part in Wednesday's optional morning skate while backup Niklas Svedberg was on the ice, suggesting that the Bruins plan to stick with their No. 1 goalie. Expect confirmation on the starting goalie to come during pregame warmups, or about 30 minutes before the 7:00 EST puck drop. Wednesday's game will mark the first of a back-to-back set for the Bruins, so if Julien indeed tabs Rask against the Leafs, it's possible Svedberg would play Thursday versus the Canadiens.

Bruins' Rask Beats Devils Monday

Analysis: It was business as usual for the Finnish netminder, who improved to 8-4-0 in this one. Combined with his 2.44 GAA and .909 save percentage, Tuukka Rask has played soundly in the season's first month, and should bring his numbers closer to his career marks of 2.13 and .929 as the Bruins pick up steam.

Rask Stops 24, Bruins Dump Oilers

Analysis: Another sharp effort from Tuukka Rask, who's now won five of his last six starts and has posted save marks north of .920 in four of those games. All in all, he's been a lot more Rask-like lately -- now let's see him start putting up some shutouts, as he's yet to blank a team this year.

Bruins Go With Rask On Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins onto the ice for pregame warmups and will make the start Thursday against the Oilers, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is finally beginning to resemble the annual Vezina Trophy contender we've been accustomed to seeing in his recent seasons. In reeling off two consecutive wins during which he's allowed a cumulative total of three goals, Rask has been able to improve his GAA to 2.53 and his save percentage to .906. Those aren't top-tier numbers, but he'll more than likely rank among the league's top 10 in both categories by season's end.

Bruins' Rask Rounding Into Form

News:Tuukka Rask picked up his fourth win in five games Tuesday, giving up one goal on 19 shots in a 2-1 overtime triumph against the Panthers.

Analysis: Arguably the best goalie in the league in each of the past three seasons, Tuukka Rask had a bit of a rocky start to this year, but has been rounding into more typical form of late. He's still been a little short of his usual dominance, but he's pulling the ol' rate stats back in the right direction.

Bruins' Rask Set To Start Tuesday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice following Tuesday's morning skate, which puts him on track to be in goal Tuesday night. Rask, who has won three of this last four starts, will take on a Florida squad that has won three of its last four games but has scored more than two goals just once all season.

Bruins' Rask Will Start Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will start between the pipes Saturday night against the Senators, Renaud Lavoie of Journal de Montreal reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is just 4-4-0 this season as the Bruins have gotten off to a slow start, but he will look to win his third game in four starts Saturday. The defensive unit in front of him has struggled since the loss of captain Zdeno Chara (knee), and Rask has faced 109 shots over the last three games as a result.

Rask, Bruins Blow Two-Goal Lead In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask and the Bruins blew a 3-1 lead in Tuesday's loss to Minnesota, giving up a trio of third-period goals to take a 4-3 loss. He made 38 saves on 42 shots.

Analysis: It looked like Tuukka Rask was starting to get his game back to its expected level, but he took a step back again in this one. He'w now uncharacteristically been tagged for four or more goals three times in eight starts this year.

Bruins Confirm Rask For Tuesday Start

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins on the ice for pregame warmups and has been confirmed as the starter for Tuesday's game against the Wild, Joe Haggerty of CSNNE.com reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will be coming off perhaps his best outing of the season, a 4-1 victory over the Maple Leafs in which he made 32 saves. He'll carry a 4-3 record, 2.63 GAA and .897 save percentage into Tuesday's tilt with Minnesota.

Bruins' Rask On Track For Tuesday Start

Analysis:Tuukka Rask worked in the home crease during Tuesday's morning skate, which puts him on track to start Tuesday night. Rask has not been as dominant as expected early this season, but he gave up just one goal in his last start and will be looking for his third consecutive victory Tuesday night.

Bruins' Rask Starting Saturday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is 3-3-0 on the season to date, but he hasn't looked like his usual self so far. With an .880 save percentage and a goals-against average of 2.91, Rask will need to improve if the Bruins want to make another run at the Cup this year.

Bruins' Rask Delivers Win Over Sharks

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 31 of 34 shots Tuesday in a 5-3 victory over the Sharks.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask and the Bruins actually fell into a 3-2 hole in this one before rallying for three unanswered goals in the third period. While it's good to see Rask pick up his third win, this is just a so-so game by his lofty standards and his save percentage early on this year is still hovering well under .900.

Bruins' Rask On Track To Start Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask is in line to start Tuesday's game against the Sharks.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice following Tuesday's morning skate, which puts him on track to open Tuesday's game in the home team's crease. He will take on a San Jose team that was shut out in its last contest but is still averaging 3.17 goals per game.

Early Troubles Continue For Bruins' Rask

News:Tuukka Rask was touched up for five goals on just 23 shots in Thursday's loss to Montreal.

Analysis: Aside from his strong effort in the opener, Tuukka Rask hasn't looked very Rask-like in most of his outings, as he entered the game with a sub-.900 save mark, and things certainly didn't get better. While it's more than reasonable to expect Rask to recover from this rough patch nicely, it's possible that the Bruins will go to Niklas Svedberg against Buffalo on Saturday.

Bruins Go With Rask On Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in goal Thursday against the Canadiens, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: It wasn't known who would be in the starter's crease for the Bruins after they chose not to skate Thursday morning, but it looks like the team will stick with Tuukka Rask for their second game in as many days. Rask's save percentage sits at a mediocre .894 through four games, but it shouldn't take long before he brings that up closer to his .927 career mark.

Bruins To Go With Rask Wednesday Night

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes for Wednesday night's contest against the Red Wings.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice during Wednesday's morning skate, and as expected, led the Bruins on the ice for pregame warmups. He'll get an early rematch against Detroit, a team that already defeated Rask 2-1 back on October 9.

Bruins Likely To Go With Rask On Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate Wednesday and is thus expected to start against the Red Wings.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask turned in a rare dud of a performance his last time out Saturday against the Capitals, surrendering four goals on just 17 shots. The Bruins let him rest Monday versus the Avalanche in favor of backup Niklas Svedberg, so Rask should be more than ready to redeem himself Wednesday. Even if Rask plays his usual solid game, he'll still require more support from the Bruins offense, which has generated four goals in the team's four contests to date.

Rask Gets No Support In Bruins' Loss

News:Tuukka Rask made 17 saves in a 4-0 loss to Washington on Saturday night.

Analysis: He's one of the league's best, but he can't win games singlehandedly -- cripes, the Bruins have scored just three goals in their first three games this season. Be patient -- they'll right the ship and Tuukka Rask will once again deliver elite numbers for fantasy owners.

Another Start On Tap For Bruins' Rask

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate and looks prepared to start Saturday against the Capitals, Joe Haggerty of CSNNE.com reports.

Analysis: It was thought that the Bruins might consider resting Tuukka Rask with the Bruins kicking off their season with three games in four days, but it looks like coach Claude Julien will stick with the reigning Vezina Trophy winner yet again Saturday. To Rask's credit, he played superbly in the Bruins' Wednesday/Thursday back-to-back, saving 41 of 44 shots (.932 save percentage) while posting a 1.53 GAA. Even with the strenuous workload thus far, expect Rask to deliver another sterling performance versus the Capitals. With the B's playing four games in six days (including back-to-back tilts Wednesday and Thursday) next week, look for backup Niklas Svedberg to see at least one start during that span.

Bruins' Rask Saves 22 In Loss To Wings

Analysis: One night after stopping 19 of 20 in a season-opening win over the Flyers, Tuukka Rask played well again, but this time was outdueled by the Wings' Jimmy Howard. It seems likely that he'll start for the third time in four days Saturday at home against Washington.

Bruins Go With Rask For Back-To-Back

Analysis: With the Bruins opening their season with four games in six days, there was some doubt that coach Claude Julien would go to Tuukka Rask on back-to-back nights. Rask could still be rested at some point during that span, but he'll at least make two starts in a row to begin his 2014-15 campaign. He looked to be at the top of his game Wednesday, turning away 19 of 20 shots in the Bruins' 2-1 victory over the Flyers.

Rask Allows One As Bruins Win Opener

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 19 of the 20 shots he faced in Wednesday's win over the Flyers.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was predicted to be one of the top fantasy goalies heading into this season, and he sure looked the part Wednesday night. The fact that he only faced 20 shots is a good sign as well, and proves the Bruins defense is still solid after the loss of Johnny Boychuk just a few days before the season began.

Bruins Going With Rask For Opener

News:Tuukka Rask will get the starting nod for Wednesday's season opener against the Flyers, Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask rolled through his four appearances in the preseason, compiling a 1.66 GAA. Though the Bruins' rising salary cap forced the team to deal away one of its key defensemen in Johnny Boychuk over the weekend, there's still plenty of talent in front or Rask at forward and on the blue line for him to make another run at 35 wins this season.

Bruins' Rask Earns Vezina Trophy

News:Tuukka Rask was named the 2013-14 recipient of the Vezina Trophy, awarded to the NHL's top goalie, the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who earned 16 of 30 first place votes in order to secure the award, recorded a 36-15-6 record for the Bruins this past season in 58 games, while posting a 2.04 GAA to go along with a .930 save percentage and a league-high seven shutouts. He'll continue to serve as the B's top goalie next season and see the bulk of the team's starts, though at this stage it looks like Niklas Svedberg will replace Chad Johnson as Rask's top backup.

Bruins' Rask Stops 15 In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals on 18 shots in Wednesday's Game 7 loss to the Canadiens.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask posted a save percentage below .900 for the second straight game, resulting in the Bruins being eliminated from the playoffs. Rask still finished the postseason with solid numbers (.928 save percentage, 1.99 GAA), but he's probably not happy with his performance in the final two games. He's expected to start most of the games for the Bruins again in 2014-15.

Rask, Bruins Get Even With Shutout

News:Tuukka Rask and Carey Price carried dueling shutouts into overtime Thursday night, but the Bruins' Matt Fraser scored just 79 seconds into the frame, making Rask's 33 saves hold up for a 1-0 shutout in Game 4 against Montreal.

Analysis: After giving up 10 goals in the series' first three games, Tuukka Rask finally locked things down in this one, delivering a pivotal, series-evening road win. Now he gets to go back home to Boston for Game 5 on Saturday.

Bruins' Rask Having Rough Series

News:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals on 25 shots in Tuesday's loss to the Canadiens and has now allowed 10 goals in the first three games of the series -- two of them Boston losses.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask simply hasn't been quite the same guy against Montreal. Les Habs have traditionally made problems for Rask -- he owns a startling 3-10-3 regular-season record against them -- and this series has been no different. The Vezina finalist has yet to post a save percentage above .900 in these three games.

Bruins' Rask: 25 Saves In Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 25 saves in Saturday's 5-3 win over Montreal in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinals series. It's his first win in 10 tries against Montreal at home.

Analysis: He was actually bailed out by his teammates in the third period after the Habs went up 3-1 by the 6:30 mark. He hasn't been as sharp this series as he had been in the regular season, but he doesn't have to be a super stud every game given the strength of the team in front of him.

Rask, Bruins Drop Game 1 To Habs

News:Tuukka Rask allowed four goals on 33 shots Thursday in a double-overtime Game 1 loss at the hands of the Canadiens.

Analysis: The Finn played 84 minutes of effective playoff hockey, but his stat line got uglified by P.K. Subban's winner in the second OT period. Expect better results from Tuukka Rask going forward -- you just don't see teams put four goals past him very often.

Rask Guides Boston Through

Analysis: Tuukka had been remarkably solid throughout the series in giving Boston plenty of cushion to win the game. He remains one of the league's best netminders aided by playing in front of one of the league's best teams. He allowed just six goals in the five-game series and figures to be a bit busier against a faster Montreal team in the Atlantic Division final.

Rask, Bruins Drop Game 1

News:Tuukka Rask allowed one goal on 24 shots in Friday's 1-0 loss to Detroit in Game 1 of the teams' Atlantic Division semifinal series.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was beaten late in the third period on a tremendous individual effort from Pavel Datsyuk he may not have seen completely. Rask played well in the game, but so did his counterpart, Jimmy Howard. Rask is the frontrunner for the Vezina Trophy and the Bruins will ride their star goalie every night of the playoffs.

Bruins' Rask Makes 20 Saves In Win

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all but one of the 21 shots he faced in Saturday's win over the Sabres. He also picked up the second assist on a David Krejci power-play goal.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is now 36-15-6 on the season with a .930 save percentage and a 2.04 GAA. He leads the NHL with seven shutouts and is a frontrunner for the Vezina Trophy. Good job if you drafted him in fantasy hockey this season.

Bruins Roll With Rask On Saturday

Analysis: The Bruins will roll with Tuukka Rask -- who gave way to Chad Johnson in Thursday's shootout loss to the Jets -- on Saturday against Buffalo, but we wouldn't be surprised to see Johnson get the nod Sunday against the Devils, in the team's regular-season finale.

Bruins Rest Rask

News:Tuukka Rask gave way to Chad Johnson in Thursday's shootout loss to the Jets.

Analysis: Once the playoffs start, Tuukka Rask will be locked in as the B's starter in goal, but with the Bruins resting key players selectivity down the stretch, we'd expect Rask to give up another start to Johnson -- either Saturday against Buffalo or Sunday against New Jersey -- to close out the team's regular-season slate.

Bruins Expected To Start Rask

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate and is expected to receive the starting nod Thursday against the Jets, Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask lost for the second time in three contests Tuesday against the Wild, giving up three goals on 24 shots before falling in the shootout. He's still been magnificent in the net for the last month-plus, and remains worth using on any night he's in goal.

Bruins' Rask Loses In Shootout

News:Tuukka Rask stopped just 21 of 24 in Tuesday's shootout loss to the Wild.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask hasn't exactly looked sharp as the season's wound down, allowing three goals in three of his last four starts. Still, that won't put much of a damper on his Vezina-worthy campaign.

Bruins' Rask Stymies Flyers

Analysis: It's just another day at the office for Tuukka Rask, who could have the inside track on his first career Vezina Trophy once the season concludes. He's compiled a 35-15-5 record to go along with a 2.04 GAA and .930 save percentage in 56 outings.

Bruins' Rask Stops 17 In Loss

Analysis: It was an uncharacteristic performance for Tuukka Rask, as he registered a save percentage under .900 for the first time in his last eight appearances. The netminder is now 34-15-5 on the season, and will continue to get the majority of the starts as the Bruins get ready for the postseason.

Bruins' Rask Stops 49 In Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 49 saves on 52 shots in a shootout win over the Flyers on Sunday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask and the Bruins have been red hot, and Rask could be en route to a Vezina Trophy. The only thing that could limit his fantasy value down the stretch is if Boston starts resting him for the playoffs, and the Bruins have basically clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference.

Bruins Start Rask On Sunday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in net for the Bruins when they face the Flyers on Sunday, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has been nothing short of sensational recently, having won four of his last five while allowing just five goals in that span. He is now 33-14-5 with a 2.01 GAA and .931 save percentage through 53 games this year.

Rask, Bruins Silence Chicago

News:Tuukka Rask smothered all 28 shots the Blackhawks put on him in Thursday's 3-0 victory -- his seventh shutout of the season.

Analysis: He already led the NHL in shutouts coming in, so Tuukka Rask was just padding his lead with this one. The Finnish minder's given up an average of one goal per game over his last six starts, and he's won eight of nine. Not bad.

Bruins' Rask Likely To Receive Start Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate and looks set to start Thursday against the Blackhawks, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask might have seen his seven-game winning streak come to an end his last time out Monday against the Habs, but coach Claude Julien won't hesitate to turn back to him in a rematch of last season's Stanley Cup Finals participants. Look for the Blackhawks to counter with their No. 1 goalie, Corey Crawford.

Rask Expected To Start For Bruins On Monday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice Monday and looks likely to start against the Canadiens.

Analysis: Although backup Chad Johnson has picked up three of the last five starts for the Bruins, Tuukka Rask has still maintained a seven-game winning streak despite jockeying in and out of the lineup. Coach Claude Julien's willingness to turn the net over to Johnson on occasion isn't an indictment of Rask, but rather a desire to rest the No. 1 goalie in preparation for the playoffs. So long as Rask is confirmed as the starter on a given night, continue to use him without a second thought.

Bruins Expected To Return To Rask On Monday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice Monday morning, suggesting that he is in line to start the Bruins' evening game against the Wild.

Analysis: Look for Tuukka Rask to return to the Boston net on Monday after giving way to Chad Johnson in Saturday's win over the Hurricanes. Rask has won his last five starts for the surging B's, who have notched eight victories in a row overall.

Rask, Bruins Rolling

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all but one of the 21 shots he faced in Thursday's 2-1 win over Phoenix, giving Boston eight straight wins.

Analysis: A few signs pointed to Chad Johnson getting the nod for Boston on Thursday, but the Bruins stayed with the hot hand in Tuukka, who also allowed just one goal in Wednesday's win over Montreal. Tuukka Rask has been one the league's best all season, but expect to see Johnson get a start or two down the stretch for the red-hot B's.

Bruins' Rask Dominates Habs In Victory

News:Tuukka Rask handled 35 of 36 shot attempts as the Bruins defeated the Canadiens on Wednesday.

Analysis: The Finnish goalie narrowly missed out on a shutout in a dominant performance. He's now won four games in a row for the Bruins and could get the call Thursday vs. Phoenix while he remains hot.

Bruins' Rask In The Crease Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the net Wednesday vs. the Canadiens, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: He'll match up against the Habs' Peter Budaj in the first game of a back-to-back for the Bruins. If Tuukka Rask has a rough outing Wednesday, look for Chad Johnson to man the net Thursday vs. the Coyotes.

Bruins' Rask Set To Face Habs

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start Wednesday's game against the Canadiens, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, whose last start resulted in a shootout win over the Lightning on Saturday, is in line to face the Canadiens on Wednesday after giving way to Chad Johnson in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Bruins' Rask Likely In Net Saturday

News: Coach Claude Julien announced he would use the same lineup for Saturday's game against the Lightning that he used Thursday vs. the Capitals, meaning that Tuukka Rask is the likely starter in goal.

Analysis: With Tuukka Rask coming off his sixth shutout of the season in Thursday's win over Washington, it's not much of a surprise that Julien plans to stick with him. The Lightning appear a little more fearsome these days with Steven Stamkos (leg) back in the fold, but it's tough to justify placing Rask on the bench a night after he shut down Alexander Ovechkin and his mates.

Bruins' Rask Cruises To Sixth Shutout

News:Tuukka Rask needed to stop just 16 shots Thursday against Washington for his career-high sixth shutout of the season.

Analysis: The play in this one pretty much ran in one direction, as the Bruins launched 42 shots on opposing minder Braden Holtby. Tuukka Rask now leads the NHL in shutouts and continues to post some of the best rate stats around.

Rask To Start Thursday For Bruins

News:Tuukka Rask led the Bruins onto the ice ahead of Thursday's game against the Capitals.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask sat out Tuesday's game after picking up a win over the Rangers last Sunday, but will be back in goal to face Washington on Thursday evening. The Capitals have scored at least four goals in each of their past four games, including last week against the Bruins, so Rask should have his hands full once again.

Bruins Expected To Roll With Rask On Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice Thursday morning, indicating that he is in line to start the Bruins' evening tilt against the Capitals.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is on track to return to the Bruins' net Thursday after giving way to Chad Johnson in Tuesday's win over the Panthers. Rask will be facing a Washington squad that has scored at least four goals in each of the team's four games since the Olympic break.

Bruins' Rask Tops 39 In Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 39 saves on 42 shots in a win over the Rangers on Sunday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask's first start after the Olympics was poor, but given his track record, and his .927 save percentage this season, it comes at no surprise he bounced back, and he will be fine down the stretch.

Bruins Stick With Rask On Sunday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who will square off against Henrik Lundqvist on Sunday, will try to bounce back from Saturday's 4-2 loss to the Capitals, which marked the B's second straight defeat since returning from the Olympic break.

Bruins' Rask Not At His Sharpest In Return

News:Tuukka Rask struggled in Saturday's 4-2 loss to the Capitals, giving up four goals on 31 shot attempts.

Analysis: Making his first start for the Bruins since guiding the Finnish team to the bronze medal, Tuukka Rask didn't prove up to the task in this one, falling behind 3-0 by the game's halfway point. The loss was especially surprising given Rask's magnificence both at TD Garden (16-6-2, 1.81 GAA, .938 save percentage) and during daytime starts (5-1-1, 1.42 GAA, .950). Following Rask's disappointing outing, coach Claude Julien could decide to turn the net over to Chad Johnson for Sunday's game vs. the Rangers.

Bruins Start Rask On Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in net for the Bruins when they face the Capitals on Saturday.

Analysis: After getting a bit of a breather following the Olympics, Tuukka Rask is ready to get out there between the pipes and do what he does best. This will be his first game back since the break, but considering the work he put in for Finland, he should be as sharp as ever. He currently owns a 25-13-4 record with an impressive 2.11 GAA and .928 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Shuts Out USA For Bronze

Analysis:Tuukka Rask bounced back from an unspecified illness that held him out of Friday's game against Sweden to post a shutout and earn the bronze for Finland. His excellent performance led the way for the team and he finished with a 3-1 record for the tournament.

Bruins' Rask Unable To Play For Finland

News:Tuukka Rask came down with an unspecified illness and wasn't able to play in Finland's semifinal loss to Sweden on Friday, the Associated Press reports.

Analysis: Coming down with an illness at pretty much the worst possible time has to be an athlete's worst nightmare, and unfortunately for Finland, it happened to Tuukka Rask just before a huge game. While Kari Lehtonen isn't much a drop-off, fans of Finland are probably left wondering what might have been, especially after Rask was a wall in the big win over Russia. We'll see if Rask is able to play in the bronze medal game against the loser of the Canada-USA semifinal.

Bruins' Rask Superb In Victory Over Russia

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 37 of 38 shots as Finland defeated Russia to advance to the semifinals on Wednesday.

Analysis: Aside from allowing a first-period goal, Tuukka Rask was flawless Wednesday, ending the Russians' hopes of bringing home a medal on their home ice. Prior to the victory, Rask had been a bit up and down for the Fins, but this performance should cement him as the team's starting goalie for a critical showdown Friday with top-seeded Sweden.

Bruins' Rask Delivers Strong Showing Vs. Canada

Analysis: The Fins were outshot by a 27-15 margin, but Tuukka Rask proved dependable in goal until he was beaten by a Drew Doughty wrister halfway through overtime. The loss notwithstanding, it was a quality bounce-back performance from Rask, who was blasted for four goals in the opener against Austria. He could get the starting nod Wednesday, when the Fins will take on either Russia or Norway.

Bruins' Rask Struggles In Olympic Debut

News:Tuukka Rask surrendered four goals on 20 shots in an 8-4 victory for Finland over Austria on Thursday.

Analysis: Despite Finland's lopsided victory, Tuukka Rask was probably outplayed by Austrian goalie Bernhard Starkbaum, who did well to keep Finland to single-digit goals after his team was outshot by a 52-20 margin. Rask will get the night off Friday against Norway, with Kari Lehtonen drawing the start for the Fins. If Lehtonen delivers a strong outing, Rask could be relegated for backup duties for the games to come in light of his poor showing.

Bruins' Rask To Start Opener For Finland

News:Tuukka Rask will get the start in goal for Finland in their Olympic opener against Austria on Thursday.

Analysis: The Fins have an embarrassment of riches in goal, as Kari Lehtonen and Antti Niemi both offer exceptional alternatives if Tuukka Rask should falter in the opener. Of greater concern for Finland is if they can generate enough offense to support their capable netminders, as the team will be without two of their top forwards in Mikko Koivu and Valtteri Filppula due to injury.

Bruins' Rask Allows Three Goals Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 24 of 27 shots during the Bruins' 3-2 overtime loss to the Blues on Thursday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask gave up a goal in each of the first two periods but held the Blues scoreless in the third as the Bruins waged a comeback to send the game into overtime. But during the extra period, Rask was unable to do anything as Blues forward T.J. Oshie had the puck come off the back of the net and onto his stick which he then banked off the back of Rask's pad for the game-winner. The loss was his second in his last five, though he's only allowed 10 goals in that span.

Bruins' Rask In Net Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask will start between the pipes in Thursday's game against the Blues.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is coming off a great start against the Canucks in which he only allowed one goal in a win. He has won three of his past four starts. He will have a tough matchup against the Blues on Thursday but should be a dependable start.

Bruins' Rask Stops 27 In Victory

News:Tuukka Rask made 27 saves in Tuesday's 3-1 win over Vancouver -- his third in four starts.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was looking a smidge uneven for a little while there, but he's managed to smooth things out of late, allowing two or fewer goals in four of his last five games. His rate stats can still hang with those of just about any other goalie in the league.

Bruins Expected To Return To Rask Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask was first off the ice at the Bruins' morning skate, suggesting that he is in line to start Tuesday's game against the Canucks.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is thus on track to return to the Boston net after giving way to Chad Johnson in Saturday's win over the Oilers. He'll take aim at a Vancouver team that has dropped four straight games.

Bruins' Rask Beat By Habs

News:Tuukka Rask was pulled from Thursday's 4-1 loss to the Canadiens in the second period, after giving up three goals on 18 shots.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is having a fantastic season and has looked strong the last few weeks, so there's really nothing to worry about here. He'll be disappointed to take a blowout loss against a rival, but Rask should bounce back soon enough. His next chance to start is Saturday against the Oilers, though it wouldn't be particularly surprising if Chad Johnson gets the nod.

Bruins' Rask In The Net Thursday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has returned to dominant form in winning his last two starts, holding the Flyers to one goal on 26 shots and the Panthers to two on 30. He'll try to keep it going against the Canadiens, who had lost their previous four games before Tuesday's shutout of the Hurricanes.

Bruins' Rask To Start Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the net Tuesday vs. the Panthers, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: In what is sure to be a much-discussed storyline heading into the game, Tuukka Rask will face off against mentor Tim Thomas, who gets the start in goal for the Panthers in his first game in Boston since he decided to temporarily retire after the 2011-12 season.

Bruins' Rask Allows Two Goals In Victory

News:Tuukka Rask held the Panthers to two goals on 30 shots attempts in Tuesday's 6-2 victory.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask continued one of the best seasons of his career on Tuesday, improving his record to 24-12-3. The 26-year-old has seen his save percentage dip a bit to .916 in the month of January, but has still remained among the league's top ten in GAA. After receiving a day of rest Monday, look for Rask to be in the net once again Thursday against Montreal.

Bruins' Rask Puts Clamps On Flyers

News:Tuukka Rask held the Flyers to one goal on 26 shot attempts to record his 23rd win of the season Saturday.

Analysis: After a recent run of substandard play, Tuukka Rask seems to be back in form over his last two outings. Fantasy owners should feel comfortable rolling with him against just about any opponent moving forward.

Bruins Start Rask On Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in net for the Bruins when they face the Flyers on Saturday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask hasn't played since last Sunday due to some recent struggles, but he will get the opportunity to turn things around in a big match-up with the Flyers. Despite his struggles, he is still 22-12-5 with a 2.11 GAA and .929 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask The Likely Starter Saturday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was given the night off in the team's last game Monday vs. the Kings in light of his recent struggles. The goalie has a 1-3-1 record and .890 save percentage over his last five turns and could have a good opportunity to break through the slump Saturday with another struggling netminder in Steve Mason manning the crease for the Flyers.

Bruins Start Rask On Sunday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in net for the Bruins when they face the Blackhawks on Sunday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has struggled a bit as of late, losing three of his last four while allowing 12 goals over that span. Still, for the first time facing the Blackhawks since last year's finals, who else would they use? Despite the recent stumbles, he is still 22-12-2 on the season with a 2.11 GAA and .928 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Allows Four In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask allowed four goals on 26 shots in Tuesday's loss to Toronto.

Analysis: It just looked like Tuukka Rask was coming out of his recent slide on Saturday, when he shut out San Jose, but he fell back again in this one against a Toronto team that hasn't been playing all that well. Rask's won just twice in his last seven starts and has allowed a combined 20 goals on 107 shots in the losing efforts -- an .813 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask To Get Start Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in goal Saturday vs. the Sharks, Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area reports.

Analysis: Although Tuukka Rask has faltered in his last two outings - losses to both the Ducks and the Kings - coach Claude Julien will allow him to work through the slump as the Bruins continue their trip out west. The recent struggles haven't done much to damage Rask's sterling ratios, as he carries an impressive 2.12 GAA and .928 save percentage into Saturday's contest.

Bruins Yank Rask Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask was pulled from Thursday's game after allowing three goals on 18 shots in a 4-2 loss to the Kings.

Analysis: Two early-second-period goals put Los Angeles up 3-0 and sent Tuukka Rask to the bench in favor of Chad Johnson, who stopped 16 of 17 in relief. Though Rask's hit the skids lately, getting yanked twice and allowing a total of 17 goals in his last five starts, his fantasy owners would be wise to remain patient with their stud netminder.

Bruins Roll With Rask Thursday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has hit a bit of a rough patch in the wake of blueliner Dennis Seidenberg's season-ending injury, but he'll have a chance to bounce back Thursday against a Los Angeles squad that is 1-5-1 over its last seven games.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Ducks On Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 15 of 20 shots while allowing goals on all three of Anaheim's power-play opportunities in Tuesday's 5-2 road loss to the Ducks.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who has struggled in three of his last four starts, is too talented not to bounce back sooner rather than later, but it's pretty clear at this point that the presence of sturdy blueliner Dennis Seidenberg (who is out for the season) is sorely missed by the Bruins.

Bruins' Rask Likely To Start Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice Tuesday and is expected to start against the Ducks.

Analysis: Tuesday might be one of the few outings that Tuukka Rask isn't favored to win this season, as he'll opposing the red-hot Jonas Hiller, who has won his last 11 decisions in goal. That being said, Rask and his 21-9-2 record and 1.96 GAA should keep the game competitive at the very least.

Rask Sharp As Bruins Roll

Analysis: After two woeful showings in a row against the Senators and Islanders, Tuukka Rask looked like his old self back at the TD Garden. With a sub-2.00 GAA and a 21-9-2 record on his ledger, he's still one of the leading candidates for the Vezina Trophy, in spite of his recent struggles.

Rask Starts For Bruins On Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in goal for the Bruins when they face the Jets on Saturday.

Analysis: Though Tuukka Rask has struggled in his last two games, allowing eight goals in just over four periods, he'll get the nod here against the Jets. Despite the recent problems, he is still 20-9-2 on the season with a 1.99 GAA and .932 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Isles Tuesday

Analysis: Another subpar outing for Tuukka Rask, who was yanked from Saturday's game against the Senators after allowing three goals on 12 shots. The Bruins at one point held a 3-1 lead Tuesday, but were undone by an uncharacteristic breakdown in penalty killing, allowing four power play tallies in the contest.

Rask Starts For Bruins

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who will square off against the Isles' Evgeni Nabokov, will look to bounce back Tuesday night after allowing three goals on 12 shots and getting pulled Saturday against against the Senators.

Bruins Likely To Roll With Rask

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at the Bruins' morning skate, suggesting that he is in line to start Tuesday's game against the Islanders.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask -- who is having a stellar campaign overall -- will be looking to bounce back Tuesday after being pulled from Saturday's game against the Senators after giving up three goals on 12 shots.

Bruins' Rask Blanks Senators On Friday

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all 33 shots he faced in Friday's win over the Senators to notch his fourth shutout of the season.

Analysis: The shutout gave Tuukka Rask the league lead, breaking an eight-way tie for second place. By almost any statistical measure, Rask has arguably been the league's best goalie this season, as he also ranks in the top five in wins, GAA and save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start Friday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice Friday and is expected to get the start against the Senators.

Analysis: With three full days to rest up for Friday's contest, Tuukka Rask should be ready to pick up where he left off after the holiday break. He's reeled off wins in three consecutive contests, including one shutout.

Bruins' Rask Makes 32 Saves In Win

News:Tuukka Rask made 32 saves on 34 shots in a 6-2 win over Nashville on Monday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has now won his past three games and has only lost twice in the month of December. He has won five of his past six games and has a remarkable 1.87 GAA and a .936 save percentage on the season. You can't do much better.

Bruins' Rask: 34 Saves In Win

News:Tuukka Rask continued to show why he is considered among the league's best netminders with a 34-save, 4-1 win over the Sabres on Saturday night. He has four wins in his last five starts.

Analysis: He had one bad outing in that span -- a four-goal stinker where he was pulled early in the third period. But he allowed just four goals in those four wins and that includes a shutout. His workload is starting to creep up -- this was his 28th start. His previous career mark is 39 starts in a season and he could start to show some fatigue, particularly with the strains that come in an Olympic year. Monitor him carefully.

Bruins Give Rask The Saturday Start

Analysis: The Bruins uncharacteristically dropped Thursday's game to the lowly Sabres, but expect a different result Saturday with Boston back at home and with its No. 1 goalie between the pipes. Considering his sterling numbers this season along with the caliber of his opponents, Tuukka Rask might be the best league-wide starting goalie option on the board Saturday.

Bruins Likely To Roll With Rask

News: After giving way to Chad Johnson in Thursday's loss to Buffalo, Tuukka Rask will likely return to the Bruins' net in Saturday's rematch against the Sabres, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: The Sabres sit at the bottom of the NHL's standings, but have won two games in a row and certainly can't be taken lightly after upending the B's on Thursday. For his part, Tuukka Rask blanked the Flames in his last start and checks in at 17-8-2, with 1.90 GAA and .934 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Stymies Flames

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all 21 shots he faced in a 2-0 victory over the Flames on Tuesday.

Analysis: This was exactly the performance Tuukka Rask needed after getting pulled for allowing four goals on 23 shots in a blowout loss to Vancouver on Saturday. He got a lot of help from his teammates in this one, facing just 21 shots the entire night.

Bruins Roll With Rask

News:Tuukka Rask was first off the ice at the Bruins' morning skate, indicating that he's in line to start Tuesday's game against the Flames.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who gave up four goals on 23 shots before being yanked in the third period of Saturday's loss to the Canucks, will look to bounce back Tuesday behind a Bruins lineup that has been hit by a rash of injuries of late.

Bruins' Rask Set To Start Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask (illness) was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate and looks to be on track to start Saturday vs. the Canucks.

Analysis: A case of the flu prevented Tuukka Rask from taking the net Thursday night, but with a couple of days to rest up, it looks like he's now much healthier. With the flu symptoms in the rear-view mirror, Rask looks to be safe starting option for fantasy owners Saturday.

Bruins' Rask Expected Back Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask, who has been dealing with the flu, is expected to be ready to go Saturday night against the Canucks after giving way to backup Chad Johnson on Thursday in Edmonton, the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis: We'll await confirmation of his potential Saturday assignment, but for now it appears as though the 16-7-2 Tuukka Rask is on track to make his first start since Tuesday's 2-1 win over the Flames.

Bruins' Rask To Sit Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask (illness) will not start Thursday against the Oilers, Amalie Benjamin of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is the latest victim of the flu bug that has been passing around the Boston locker room of late and will be limited to backup duties Thursday as a result. The fact that the Bruins didn't rush to call up a goalie from the minors on an emergency basis suggests Rask could be ready to go when the Bruins play their next game Saturday against the Canucks.

Bruins' Rask Dealing With Flu

Analysis: Coach Claude Julien revealed Wednesday that he planned to start backup Chad Johnson against the Flames on Tuesday, but Johnson was sick, so Tuukka Rask played instead. Now that Johnson is feeling better and Rask is under the weather, it looks like the B's could roll with Johnson on Thursday against the Oilers.

Bruins' Rask To Get Start Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate and is expected to get the start Tuesday against the Flames.

Analysis: No surprise here that Tuukka Rask will draw the start after receiving Sunday off. Rask should be a safe option against the floundering Flames, even with a battered defense working in front of him.

Bruins Tab Rask For Saturday Start

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes Saturday vs. the Penguins, Joe Haggerty of CSNNE.com reports.

Analysis: To little surprise, coach Claude Julien will go with Tuukka Rask in a battle of Eastern Conference heavyweights. Rask has been excellent in any venue this season, but especially so at home, where he is 9-3-2 with a 1.69 GAA and .941 save percentage.

Bruins' Rask Strong In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 25 of 27 shots in Thursday's loss to the Canadiens.

Analysis: Since a six-goal pasting at the hands of the Red Wings on Nov. 27, Tuukka Rask's turned in a pair of two-goal outings. He's been among the league's best in goal this year, and there's no reason to expect anything but more of the same.

Bruins Ready To Roll With Rask Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at the Bruins' morning skate, indicating that he is in line to start Thursday's game against Montreal.

Analysis: After a fairly hectic November, Tuukka Rask and the Bruins enjoyed some extra time off to start this month, with the team having last played Saturday and Rask last starting this past Friday. The B's top netminder checks back in with a 14-6-2 record, with a 1.90 GAA and .935 save percentage.

Rask, Boston Bounce Back

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 17 shots in Friday's 3-2 win over the Rangers, his 14th win of the season.

Analysis: Friday's effort was a far cry from the six goals he allowed to Detroit on Wednesday. Hopefully Tuukka Rask's mini-skid is over, as he had allowed nine goals over two games. He's still the most reliable netminder in fantasy hockey on one of the league's best teams.

Bruins Stick With Rask For Friday Start

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the crease Friday against the Rangers, Andrew Gross of the Bergen Record reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will look to avenge a horrendous showing Wednesday against the Red Wings in which he yielded six goals on 28 shots. In spite of the dud of a performance, Rask still ranks in the top five amongst all NHL goaltenders in both GAA (1.89) and save percentage (.936) this season.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Wings

News:Tuukka Rask allowed six goals on 28 shots in Wednesday's 6-1 loss to the Red Wings.

Analysis: It was a rare dud for Tuukka Rask, who is 13-6-2 overall, with a 1.89 GAA and .936 save percentage. He'll have a chance to bounce back in a short order, with the Bruins playing both Friday (against the Rangers) and Saturday (against the Blue Jackets). Backup Chad Johnson could draw the start in one of those two contests and then the Bruins don't play again until December 5.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at morning skate and is expected to start Wednesday vs. the Red Wings.

Analysis: He'll have the luxury of matching up against backup Jonas Gustavsson with No. 1 netminder Jimmy Howard receiving the night off for Detroit. Tuukka Rask has been typically dominant in the net for the Bruins over his last handful of contests, reeling off six wins in his last eight games, allowing less than two goals on all but two occasions.

Bruins' Rask Earns Win In OT

News:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals on 31 shots in Monday's 4-3 OT win over the Penguins.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask picked up his 13th win of the season, despite allowing a game-tying goal in the final second of regulation. He's given up more than two goals in just five of his 20 appearances this season, as he continues to play well behind a stingy defense. Seeing as Chad Johnson got the nod Saturday against Carolina, Rask will likely return to the net for Wednesday's game in Detroit.

Bruins Roll With Rask

News:Tuukka Rask was first off the ice at the Bruins' morning skate, indicating that he will start Monday's game against the Penguins.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will continue to see the bulk of the Bruins' starts in goal, with the team's next set of back-to-back tilts Friday (against the Rangers) and Saturday (against the Blue Jackets). Look for backup Chad Johnson to draw the start in one of those two contests.

Bruins' Rask Starting Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask will start Thursday's game against the Blues, Mike Loftus of the Patriot Ledger reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has been hot lately, winning five of his last six games and only giving up eight goals over that span. He'll look to keep rolling against a high-powered Blues squad that ranks second in the NHL with 3.40 goals per game.

Bruins' Rask Stops 24 In Shootout Loss

Analysis:Tuukka Rask surrendered multiple goals for just the second time in his last seven games, dropping his record to 12-5-2 in the process. Despite Thursday's disappointing loss, the 26-year-old Finn is having another fantastic season for one of the best defensive teams in the league. He remains an elite fantasy option in nearly any format.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start in goal Thursday against the Blues, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: A win Thursday would tie Tuukka Rask, who has allowed one goal or fewer in five of his last six starts, for the league lead in victories. He's allowed 17 goals on 331 shots (.949) in 11 home starts to this point.

Bruins' Rask Stops 43 In Victory

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 43 of 44 shots in Tuesday's win over the Rangers.

Analysis: A surprise starter in the second of a back-to-back set, Tuukka Rask delivered yet another star-caliber performance to take home the win despite seeing the Rangers outshoot Boston 44-22. There's a strong argument that he's fantasy's top netminder.

Bruins Go With Rask On Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask will get the start in the net Tuesday against the Rangers, Andrew Gross of the Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: All indications from morning skate were that Chad Johnson would be in the net for the Bruins, but it looks like coach Claude Julien ended up changing his mind before warmups. Tuukka Rask stopped 23 of 24 shots in Monday's win over the Hurricanes to get back on track after a rare off night last Friday against the Senators.

Bruins' Rask To Start Monday

News:Tuukka Rask will start in goal Monday against the Hurricanes, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask gave up just four goals in his first four starts of November, but he then allowed four on 31 shots against Ottawa on Friday. He'll look to rebound Monday on the road, where he has a 2.02 GAA on the season.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Sens

Analysis: The B's jumped out to a 2-0 lead that was trimmed to 2-1 late in the first period, before a three-goal third period outburst cemented the Sens' comeback, snapping Boston's four-game winning streak. Tuukka Rask, who sports a nifty 1.68 GAA overall, will continue to see most of the Bruins' starts in net, but note that the team plays back-to-back games on Monday (Hurricanes) and Tuesday (Rangers).

Bruins' Rask Back In Goal Friday

News:Tuukka Rask will get the start in net Friday against the Senators, Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is fresh off a shutout of the Lightning, but will get a breather Thursday as backup Chad Johnson takes on the Blue Jackets. Rask will return to the crease Friday in the second game of a back-to-back and will attempt to slow down a high-powered Tampa Bay attack that ranks eighth in the NHL with 2.94 goals per game, but just lost Steven Stamkos.

Bruins' Rask Blanks Lightning

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all 28 shots he faced in a shutout victory over the Lightning on Monday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has been on a tear recently, as he has not let up more than two goals in five straight games, and no more than one goal in his last three games. He's currently in the top five in both save percentage and GAA. In short, he's a great goalie -- but you already knew that.

Bruins Roll With Rask

News:Tuukka Rask will start Monday afternoon's game against the Lightning.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who has only given way to backup Chad Johnson twice this season, has allowed just one goal in each of his past two starts -- both wins -- lowering his GAA to a sparkling 1.63 in the process.

Bruins' Rask Logs Saturday Start

News:Tuukka Rask will be in the net Saturday vs. the Maple Leafs, Joey McDonald of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has bounced back from a minor rough spell in late October to surrender just five goals in his last three turns. The Leafs represent one of the league's better offensive clubs, but if anyone can make things difficult for them, it's Rask.

Bruins' Rask Saves 23 In 4-1 Win

Analysis: After losing three of his previous four outings, Tuukka Rask got back in the win column Thursday night, improving his record to 8-4-1. Sporting a .942 save percentage, the Finn looks as brilliant as ever behind a sturdy Boston defense.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Start Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start in goal Thursday against the Panthers, Steve Goldstein of FOX Sports Florida reports.

Analysis: It will be Tuukka Rask's sixth start in the team's last seven games, and second of the year against Florida. Back on Oct. 17, he stopped 27 of 29 shots en route to a 3-2 win over the Panthers.

Bruins' Rask Allows Two Goals In Loss

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was just a few minutes away from a 2-1 victory when Vernon Fiddler snuck in a backhander with 2:34 left in regulation to send the game into overtime. In the shootout, Rask surrendered goals to Tyler Seguin and Rich Peverley that sunk the Bruins. Despite the tough loss, Rask is still off to a terrific start to this season, and he'll likely get another opportunity Thursday against the Panthers.

Bruins' Rask In Goal Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask will start between the pipes Tuesday against the Stars, Joe Haggerty of CSN New England reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was given a game off over the weekend for the Bruins and returns to the ice with a favorable matchup Tuesday. He's off to another strong start this season, going 7-4-0 in his first 11 games with a 1.73 GAA and .940 save percentage. Rask's a must-start Tuesday against the Stars.

Bruins' Rask Picks Up Shootout Win Over Ducks

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 21 of 23 shots Thursday and came away with shootout win against the Ducks.

Analysis: He actually put up the very same line as his counterpart, Jonas Hiller, but Tuukka Rask was one better in the shootout. He continues to start almost every game for Boston and put up great numbers; you know what to do.

Bruins' Rask In Net Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes Thursday against the Ducks, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will get his second start in back-to-back nights as the Bruins try to avoid dropping their third straight game. He'll have a tough test ahead of him, as the Ducks come to Boston ranked eighth in the NHL in scoring with 3.15 goals-per-game.

Rask Finishes With 28 Saves As Bruins Lose

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was airtight in goal for about two and a half periods until Brandon Sutter and Jussi Jokinen broke through for scores to put him on the hook for the loss. Even with the three goals allowed, Rask still managed to save 90 percent of the shots he faced for the eighth time in 10 turns this season.

Bruins Roll With Rask

Analysis: The Penguins got back on the winning track Monday with a 3-1 win over Carolina, but prior to that they had dropped three straight contests. The Bruins also play Thursday night against the Ducks, with coach Claude Julien noting that he won't decide until after Wednesday's tilt whether Tuukka Rask or Chad Johnson will get the starting nod for that contest.

Rask Starts For Bruins On Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes for the Bruins when they face the Devils on Saturday, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: This shouldn't come as much of a surprise as Tuukka Rask has looked fantastic in net this season and has had a day off already in between games. He's 6-2 with a 1.26 GAA and .957 save percentage through eight games this season.

Bruins' Rask Shuts Down Sharks

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 38 of 39 shots Thursday, shutting down the Sharks and getting a last-second goal from David Krejci for a 2-1 win.

Analysis: A truly impressive performance by Tuukka Rask, outdueling a fine goalie on the other end in Antti Niemi despite seeing his team get outshot by a ridiculous 39-17 margin. The Sharks have scored the most goals in the NHL, so quieting their offense is no small deal. Rask is looking like the best goalie in the NHL right now, and with the B's winning consistent and Chad Johnson unlikely to steal many starts, Rask's the best goalie in fantasy as well.

Bruins' Rask Expected Back In Net Thursday

News: Chad Johnson got the nod in net for the Bruins against the Sabres on Wednesday, with Tuukka Rask slated to start Thursday's game against the Sharks.

Analysis: Wednesday and Thursday marked the Bruins' first set of back-to-back contests this season, and Tuukka Rask is set to return to the crease Thursday. The B's second back-to-back set is next week, Wednesday against the Penguins and Thursday against the Ducks.

Bruins' Rask Could Sit Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask's backup, Chad Johnson could get the starting nod against the Sabres on Wednesday in the first of a back-to-back set, the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis: Johnson needs the work, and we'd expect the Bruins to go with him Wednesday against 1-8-1 Buffalo, which would allow the team to roll out a rested Tuukka Rask on Thursday against the 8-0-1 Sharks.

Bruins' Rask To Make Start In Goal Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes Saturday against the Lightning, the Boston Globe's Amalie Benjamin reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask didn't take part in Saturday's optional morning skate but is still expected to get the starting nod vs. the Lightning. He's been magnificent on the season with a 4-2-0 record and 1.51 GAA but will face a tough adversary in the opposite goal in Tampa's Ben Bishop, who is similarly dialed in with a 1.57 GAA and .943 save percentage over five games.

Bruins' Rask Outduels Old Mate In Win

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 27 of 29 shots Thursday against Florida, outlasting his former teammate Tim Thomas in a 3-2 victory.

Analysis: Thomas and Tuukka Rask battled over goalie duties in Boston for three seasons, and while both posted spectacular stats, Thomas tended to get more work up until he took a year off from the game for last season's strikeout-shortened campaign. Rask's off to a terrifically good start, as he's got a 1.51 GAA and .947 save percentage through six outings.

Bruins Roll With Rask

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is off to a nice start, as he's allowed just one goal in each of his four starts. A quick peek at the Bruins' schedule suggests that he may not get a day off until the team's first set of back-to-back contests, Oct. 23 and 24.

Bruins' Rask Puts Clamps On Jackets

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 26 of 27 shots as the Bruins defeated the Blue Jackets on Saturday.

Analysis: For the fourth straight start, Tuukka Rask was able to hold the opposition to one goal. Though his first shutout of the season remains elusive, his ability to consistently keep the score low makes him arguably the top fantasy goalie to own.

Bruins Stick With Rask

Analysis:Tuukka Rask -- who has allowed one goal in each of his three turns to date -- is in line to see the bulk of the B's starts this season, and with the team's first set of back-to-back games not until October 23 and 24, we might not see backup Chad Johnson get a start until then.

Bruins Going With Rask On Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start against the Avalanche on Thursday, the Patriot Ledger reports.

Analysis: While it's not guaranteed, Tuukka Rask will likely make his third straight start to begin the season after being the first goalie to leave the ice at the morning skate. The netminder is off to a hot start after signing a big contract in the offseason, having posted a save percentage of .966 and a GAA of 1.00 while winning both of his first two starts.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Avs

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has given up one goal in each of the Bruins' first three games, leaving him with an impressive .966 save percentage. Thursday night he was bested by a Colorado team that has now outscored its opponents 13-3 through five games. Next up for the Bruins is a matchup against the Blue Jackets on Saturday.

Bruins' Rask On Track To Start Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first man off the ice at morning skate and will start Saturday against the Red Wings, the CSNNE.com reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will go head-to-head with the Red Wings' Jimmy Howard in what should be one of the better goaltending matchups we've seen in the first week of the season. The Bruins' netminder was typically excellent in Thursday's opener, stopping 32 of 33 shots in a 3-1 win over the Lightning.

Bruins' Rask Sharp In Opener

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 32-of-33 shots in Thursday's 3-1 win over the Lightning in the Bruins' season opener.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who looked sharp in his opening outing, remains a top-notch fantasy option working behind the defensively responsible Bruins. Assuming his health, he'll handle the bulk of the team's netminding duties, with Chad Johnson only in line to see spot duty.

Rask In Net For Season Opener

News:Tuukka Rask will start between the pipes in the Bruins' season opener against the Lightning on Thursday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will return to his post minding the net for the Bruins to start the season. In 36 games in 2012-13, he posted a 19-10-5 record with a .929 save percentage and a 2.00 GAA to go along with five shutouts. He'll see the bulk of the B's starts in 2013-14, with Chad Johnson on hand to see spot duty, generally in back-to-back scenarios.

Bruins Sign Rask to Extension

News:Tuukka Rask signed an eight-year, $56 million contract with the Bruins on Wednesday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has long been one of the better goalies in the NHL, but he has plenty of productive days ahead at just 26 years old. He's coming off a 19-10-5 regular season in which he posted a GAA of 2.00 with a save percentage of .929. He should be one of the better fantasy goalies again in 2013.

Bruins Expect To Re-Sign Rask Soon

News: GM Peter Chiarelli feels confident that the Bruins will get a deal with Tuukka Rask done before too long.

Analysis: Re-signing Tuukka Rask for the long haul is a no-brainer for the B's and doing so remains the team's top offseason priority heading into free agency. Moreover, once the parameters of a Rask deal are in place, the team's budge/strategy with regards to pursuing other players should be clarified.

Bruins Want To Get Deal With Rask Done ASAP

News: Re-signing Tuukka Rask, who is slated to become restricted free agent, is a priority for the Bruins. "We'd like to get him done as soon as we can," GM Peter Chiarelli noted Wednesday.

Analysis: That's a no-brainer, and really the only question here is how much it will take to re-sign the 26-year-old netminder, who solidified his status as a top notch goalie for the B's with a fine 2012-13 effort that carried into the playoffs.

Bruins' Rask Surrenders Six Goals In OT Loss

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 41 shots in Wednesday's 6-5 overtime loss to the Blackhawks in Game 4 of the Stanley Cup finals.

Analysis: After two games in a row in which the Bruins smothered the Blackhawks defensively, things opened up for both teams in a big way on Wednesday. Expect the Bruins to make tightening up their ways in all three zones a priority leading up to and in Saturday's Game 5 in Chicago.

Bruins' Rask Shuts Out Chicago

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all 28 shots he faced in Monday's 2-0 win over the Blackhawks in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup finals.

Analysis: The shutout was Tuukka Rask's third of the postseason, with the effort lifting his save percentage to a playoff-best .946 and lowering his GAA to spiffy 1.64. Should the Bruins -- who are up 2-1 over the Hawks at present -- prevail in the series, Rask would be a Conn Smythe Trophy frontrunner.

Rask, Bruins Steal Game 2 Win

News:Tuukka Rask turned aside 33 shots over 73:48 of crease time in Saturday's 2-1 Game 2 win at Chicago.

Analysis: The only goal he allowed was arguably not his fault, as it was pushed in with a multi-car (actually, multi-skater) pileup in front of him. Tuukka Rask might be getting weary, since this was the Bruins' second straight OT game; but with the extra days off built into the schedule, he should be fine for Game 3 on Monday.

Bruins' Rask Allows Four In Game 1 Loss

News:Tuukka Rask made 59 saves during the Bruins' 4-3 triple-overtime loss to the Blackhawks on Wednesday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask played another stellar game, but a point shot got deflected twice before sneaking past him late in the third overtime period, giving Chicago a 1-0 series lead in the Stanley Cup Finals.

Rask Shines In Boston Win

Analysis: Goaltending has been the major difference between the two clubs in the Eastern Conference finals, and Tuukka Rask will look to lead the Bruins to a sweep on home ice in Game 4 to avoid a collapse akin to Boston's surprising exit from the 2010 playoffs after carrying a 3-0 series lead against Philadelphia.

Bruins' Rask Good To Go Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask will start Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final against the Penguins on Wednesday, NHL.com reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask took a shot off his shoulder at Wednesday morning's workout, which prompted him to skate toward the bench and slam his stick against the boards. The good news is that he quickly returned to his post and is fine for Wednesday's contest. Rask has stopped 55-of-56 shots through the first two games of the series, both Boston wins.

Bruins' Rask Stops 26 In Win

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 26 of the 27 shots he faced in a Game 2 win over the Penguins on Monday.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has only let in one goal to the potent Pittsburgh offense so far, and now the Bruins have secured two road wins to open this series, greatly improving their chances of moving on to the next round.

Bruins Rally Behind Rask To Close Series

News: Boston fell behind early in Saturday's Game 5 when Tuukka Rask allowed a first-period power-play goal. But he was flawless the rest of the way as the Bruins surged ahead to take a 3-1 win to close out the series against New York.

Analysis: After a shaky first-round series against Toronto, he put on a dominating performance against the Rangers, posting a GAA of 1.86 and stopping shots at a .936 pace. He now faces the daunting task of stemming Pittsburgh's potent attack in the conference final.

Rask, Bruins Fall Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask gave up four goals on 32 shots in Thursday's OT loss to the Rangers.

Analysis: The Rangers played well in a must-win situation in Game 4, but the series is now headed back to Boston and Tuukka Rask will be counted on to bounce back to his form from the previous three games where he allowed just five goals on 96 shots.

Bruins' Rask Wins Again In Game 3

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 23 of 24 shots Tuesday to give Boston a 3-0 lead over the Rangers in their Eastern Conference Semifinal series.

Analysis: Though Tuukka Rask wasn't challenged very often in this one, he was sharp against the Rangers' few quality opportunities. He seems to be getting better and better as he goes along -- a scary sign for the opposition.

Bruins' Rask Thwarts Rangers Again

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 35-of-37 shots in Sunday's win over the Rangers in Game 2 of the Bruins' second-round playoff series.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who has won his last three playoff starts, has led the Bruins to a 2-0 series lead in the process. He'll continue to man the pipes for the team when the series resumes in New York on Tuesday.

Bruins' Rask To Start Game 1

Analysis: Despite Tuukka Rask's poor performance in Game 7, the Bruins managed to rally for three goals in the third period before emerging victorious in overtime. Rask figures to continue to see all the starts in the series against the Rangers.

Bruins' Rask Slated To Start Monday

News:Tuukka Rask is in line to start Game 7 against the Maple Leafs on Monday, the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was solid in the last two games -- giving up four goals on 59 shots -- but lost both contests, and will need some goal support Monday as the Bruins look to avoid a first-round upset against the Leafs.

Bruins' Rask Pulls Out Game 7 Win

Analysis: Down 4-1 as the middle of the third period approached, things didn't look good for the Bruins, but Tuukka Rask calmly held his ground as the the team stormed back to complete a stunning comeback. Next up for Rask and the B's in the second round of the playoffs are the Rangers, with Game 1 slated to be played at home on Thursday.

Bruins' Rask Lets In Two In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask made 24 saves on 26 shots but took the loss in Game 6 against the Maple Leafs on Sunday.

Analysis: The Leafs have forced a Game 7 against the Bruins, but Tuukka Rask hasn't been the issue. He's posted a .932 save percentage this postseason, which is even better than his stellar .929 save percentage in the regular season.

Rask Allows Two Goals In Bruins' Loss

Analysis: It's pretty clear that the Bruins plan to stick with Tuukka Rask, who has allowed 12 goals through the first five games of the team's series against Toronto, as their postseason bid rolls on. Up 3-2 over the Leafs, the Bruins and Rask -- who has faced 128 shots over his last three games -- will try to close out the series on the road on Sunday.

Bruins' Rask Makes 45 Saves In Win

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 45 shots in the Game 4 overtime win over Toronto on Wednesday.

Analysis: The Bruins will look to close out the series Friday at home in Game 5, while Tuukka Rask continues to handle the heavy shot volume well after making 45 stops in a losing effort against the Leafs in Game 3 on Monday.

Rask Makes 28 Saves In Boston Loss

Analysis: He was beaten on several excellent individual efforts by Leafs like Phil Kessel and James van Riemsdyk, and his mates never answered back. He'll be the B's twinetender of choice going forward as long as he's healthy.

Bruins Roll With Rask In Playoffs

News:Tuukka Rask is in line to start Wednesday's playoff opener against the Leafs.

Analysis: No surprise there, as Tuukka Rask is slated to handle the bulk of the Bruins' netminding chores this postseason, backed up by Anton Khudobin. In 34 starts this past season, Rask compiled a 19-10-5 record with a 2.00 GAA and .929 save percentage to go along with five shutouts.

Bruins' Rask Victim Of Too Many Penalties

Analysis: He had a 2-0 lead until the 5:26 mark of the third. The Bruins took a flurry of penalties that allowed the Caps to not only force OT, but also win it with the man advantage in the extra frame. One thing for sure? This game wasn't his undoing.

Bruins' Rask Starting Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will start in goal against the Capitals on Saturday, the Boston Globe's Fluto Shinzawa reports.

Analysis: The Bruins and Canadiens are tied atop the Northeast Division with 61 points apiece, though the Bruins have two games left to play and the Canadiens have just one. Tuukka Rask will almost certainly sit out Sunday's game if the Bruins clinch Saturday, but he could be asked to make back-to-back starts if a division title is still on the line.

Bruins' Rask Saves 30 In Shutout

News:Tuukka Rask picked up his fifth shutout of the year Thursday, stopping 30 of 30 in a victory over the Lightning.

Analysis: Three of Tuukka Rask's shutouts have come in April, as he's looking in fine form for the approach of the playoffs. They'll be leaning on him in Boston in this postseason. His only prior playoff experience came in 2009-'10, when he put up a .912 save mark and 2.61 GAA in 13 games.

Bruins' Rask Officially Starting Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask has been confirmed as Thursday's starter against the Lightning.

Analysis: As expected, Tuukka Rask will suit up between the pipes. He is facing a Lightning team that ranks third in the NHL in goals scored and 26th in goals against. The Bruins offer a more defensive brand of hockey, so Thursday's matchup should be an interesting contrast of styles.

Bruins' Rask Blanks Panthers

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all 28 shots he faced in Sunday's 3-0 win over the Panthers.

Analysis: The win snaps a four-game slide for the B's, three of which Tuukka Rask had started. Looking forward, the team plays four games in six days starting Tuesday to close the regular season, so we'd expect Anton Khudobin to get a turn or two in that span.

Bruins' Rask Takes Loss Against Penguins

News:Tuukka Rask allowed three goals on 24 shots during Saturday's 3-2 loss to the Penguins.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has a .942 save percentage since the beginning of April but just a 2-4-0 record to show for it. Fantasy owners will at least be glad to see that Saturday ended the trend of Rask facing a barrage of shots. He saw at least 36 shot attempts in four of his previous five games entering Saturday.

Bruins To Start Rask In Net Saturday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was expected to be betweeen the pipes for this one, which was originally scheduled for Friday. He hasn't started the last three and in the two starts prior, he gave up a total of five goals on 68 shots.

Friday's Game Postponed For Bruins, Rask

News: Friday's game between the Bruins and Penguins at Boston's TD Garden has been postponed, the Bruins' official Twitter account reports. Tuukka Rask was a possible starter in net for Boston.

Analysis: As the tragic aftermath of Monday's Boston Marathon incident continues to unfold, the NHL opted to cancel the game due to safety concerns. It has been tentatively rescheduled for Saturday at 12:30pm.

Bruins' Rask Not Starting Wednesday

Monday's Game Canceled For Bruins, Rask

News: Monday's scheduled game between the Bruins and Senators at TD Garden - where Tuukka Rask was expected to start in goal - has been postponed, the National Hockey League has announced.

Analysis: The game was canceled in the aftermath of explosions Monday afternoon at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. No make-up date has been announced yet amid this horrible news for the Boston area.

Bruins Stick With Rask On Monday

News:Tuukka Rask is on track to start Monday's game against the Senators.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has notched wins in just two of his last seven starts, but that's more a product of the team's overall spotty play than struggles on Rask's part. He's 17-8-4 with a 1.99 GAA and .929 save percentage overall.

Rask Likely To Start Saturday For Bruins

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goaltender off the ice at the morning skate and will likely start against Carolina on Saturday night.

Analysis: Despite giving up two goals or less in each of his last five starts, Tuukka Rask is 2-3-0 during that span. Down the stretch, it will be interesting to see if the Bruins rest him up at all in favor of Anton Khudobin leading into the playoffs.

Bruins' Rask Takes Tough Loss

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 34 of 36 shots Thursday against the Islanders, but Evgeni Nabokov one-upped him in a 2-1 New York win.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask's lost three of his last five games despite giving up two goals in four of them and posting a shutout in the fifth. That doesn't speak awfully well for what the Boston offense has been doing lately -- indeed, they've scored just one goal in four of those five games.

Bruins' Rask Struggling Lately

News:Tuukka Rask made 27 saves in a 2-1 loss to Montreal on Saturday night. He made several spectacular saves, but is now 2-4-1 in his last seven games.

Analysis: He was unlucky on the first goal -- the puck was flipped into the crease and Bruins' defender Matt Batkowski put it in his own net. He's struggling right now and Anton Khodobin is not. Watch for the Bruins to consider playing the latter a bit more until Tuukka Rask recovers his winning form.

Bruins' Rask Starting Saturday

Analysis: As expected, Tuukka Rask will start between the pipes Saturday against Montreal. The 26-year-old was sharp Thursday after four days of rest, stopping all 40 shots he faced against New Jersey.

Bruins' Rask Likely Starting Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask was first off the ice during Saturday morning's skatearound, NHL.com's Arpon Basu reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask had four days of rest before Thursday's contest, so his status for Saturday was never really in doubt. He should be plenty rested and ready to go against a Montreal team that beat him 6-5 (SO) less than two weeks ago.

Bruins' Rask Spins 40-Save Shutout

News:Tuukka Rask notched his third shutout of the year Thursday, stopping all 40 shots in a 1-0 win over the Devils.

Analysis: Though he's played consistently well all year, Tuukka Rask had lost four of his last five starts, but he stepped up and denied everything New Jersey could throw at him. While Anton Khudobin just saw back-to-back starts, Rask is still the clear No. 1 in Boston's net.

Bruins Start Rask Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask has been confirmed as the Bruins' starter for Thursday's game against the Devils.

Analysis: The Bruins will be without Patrice Bergeron indefinitely, a tough loss, given that he is one of the league's top two-way forwards, but on the plus side, Jaromir Jagr is making his Boston debut Thursday in Tuukka Rask's first start since this past Saturday.

Bruins Turn To Rask Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask is in line to start Thursday's game against the Devils.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask gave way to Anton Khudobin in the Bruins' last two games and while Khudobin played well in that span, the team needs Rask -- who has won just one of his last five starts -- to get back on track sooner rather than later as the stretch run approaches.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Flyers

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has won just one of his last five starts, as the Bruins' spotty play of late continues. On the heels of losing out on the Jarome Iginla sweepstakes, look for the team to make a deal or two before the NHL's trade deadline to help bolster Rask's supporting cast.

Bruins' Rask Gets Nod Against Flyers

News:Tuukka Rask will start against the Flyers on Saturday, the Boston Globe's Fluto Shinzawa reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask gave up five goals on 28 shots Wednesday, but before that he put together a streak of six straight starts without allowing more than two goals. A matchup with the struggling Flyers should give Rask a nice chance to get back on track.

Bruins, Rask Fall In Shootout Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask and the Bruins fell in the shootout Wednesday after blowing a two-goal lead in the third period to Montreal.

Analysis: After conceding the game-winning goal to Brendan Gallagher in the shootout Tuukka Rask broke his stick in frustration while skating back to the Boston bench. While the outburst failed to match the level of entertainment provided by a similar series of events when Rask was playing for Providence (AHL) a couple of years back, it will undoubtedly give the Boston netminder some extra attention on the highlight reels. Rask continues to play well overall this season with elite ratios and a 15-4-4 record over 23 starts.

Bruins' Rask Likely Wednesday Starter

News:Tuukka Rask is in line to start Wednesday's game against the Canadiens.

Analysis: The Habs have dropped two straight games and Tuukka Rask and the Bruins have a chance to climb atop the Northeast Division standings Wednesday with a win, as the two teams both enter the contest with 45 points.

Bruins Start Rask Monday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who took over for Anton Khodobin in Saturday's loss to the Leafs, returns to the Boston net in a starting capacity Monday for the first time since last Tuesday. He checks in with a 14-4-3 record overall, with a spiffy 1.90 GAA and .928 save percentage overall.

Rask Gets Nod For Bruins On Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in goal for Tuesday's game against the Jets, Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask picked up the loss his last time out, but he has been exceptional over his last four starts, giving up just five total goals. The Jets have been playing better of late, but given Rask's numbers, both overall and recent, fantasy owners should not hesitate to start him as usual Tuesday night.

Bruins' Rask Heating Up Again

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 29 of 30 shots in Thursday's win over the Panthers, his third consecutive victory.

Analysis: After giving up four goals in consecutive games, he's rebounded and given up just three over this little winning streak. Tuukka Rask tends to go on big runs, and this seems like it could be the start of another.

Bruins' Rask In Net Thursday

Analysis: After receiving rest in two of the last four games, don't be surprised if Tuukka Rask sees several starts in a row with the Bruins jockeying for playoff position. Rask is an exceptional 13-2-3 with a 1.96 GAA and 92.7 save percentage this season.

Bruins' Rask Could Start Monday

News:Tuukka Rask is in line to start Monday's game against the Senators.

Analysis: That's based on Tuukka Rask being first off at the team's morning skate Monday, which is normally a solid indicator for who is in line to start in nets for the B's. Assuming Rask gets the nod Monday, then we'd expect Anton Khudobin to be in consideration to start Tuesday's game against the Penguins.

Bruins' Rask Blanks Flyers

News:Tuukka Rask made 23 saves en route to shutting out the Flyers 3-0 on Saturday.

Analysis: A nice bounce-back for Tuukka Rask after a pair of back-to-back 4-3 losses in his last two outings. Next up for the Bruins are consecutive games against Ottawa on Monday and Pittsburgh on Tuesday, one of which backup Anton Khudobin seems likely to start.

Bruins' Likely To Roll With Rask Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask will most likely start Thursday's game against Toronto, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: The report suggests that will Tuukka Rask probably get the nod again Saturday against the Flyers as well. Looking ahead, the Bruins play back-to-back games Monday (against Ottawa) and Tuesday (against Pittsburgh), at which point Rask seems likely to defer to Anton Khudobin in one of those contests.

Bruins, Rask Cough Up Lead In Loss

News:Tuukka Rask was staked to a 3-0 lead after one period Tuesday against Washington, but he allowed two goals in the second, one in the third, and finally the loser in overtime. Overall, he stopped 22 of 25.

Analysis: Not an impressive game for Tuukka Rask, who's now lost two in a row by identical 4-3 scores following a five-game win streak. Expect him and the Bruins to get their act together soon, as this is quite out of character.

Bruins Turn To Rask Sunday

News:Tuukka Rask is slated to start Sunday's game against the Canadiens, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask returns to the Boston net Sunday after giving way to Anton Khudobin in Saturday's 3-2 win over the Lightning. The Bruins will try to extend their winning streak to seven games on Sunday against a Montreal squad that is 7-0-3 over its last 10 games. Meanwhile, the two teams sit atop the Northeast Division with 30 points each, though the Bruins have three games in hand.

Bruins Go With Rask Thursday

Analysis: As expected, the Bruins will stick with Tuukka Rask with a off day for the goaltender likely looming with the Bruins set to play back-to-back games over the weekend. Rask has been magnificent between the pipes this season, going 10-1-2 while posting a healthy 1.89 GAA.

Bruins Expected To Stick With Rask Thursday

News: With Tuukka Rask off first at Thursday's morning skate, look for him to start the Bruins' evening contest against the Senators.

Analysis: Once the B's turn the page on February, their schedule will be pretty packed going forward, with backup Anton Khudobin likely to see action this weekend, when the team plays back-to-back games Saturday and Sunday against Tampa Bay and Montreal.

Bruins' Rask Wins Fourth Straight

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 36 of 37 Tuesday in a 4-1 win over the Isles.

Analysis: He's been on fire of late, giving up just six goals in his last four games -- all wins. Despite the seemingly easy three-goal win, Tuukka Rask had to make quite a few degree-of-difficulty saves, including twice stopping the dangerous Michael Grabner on breakaways.

Bruins Start Rask Tuesday

Analysis: The Bruins will stick with Tuukka Rask on Tuesday, while Anton Khudobin figures to see action no later than this weekend, when the Bruins play back-to-back contests Saturday and Sunday against Tampa Bay and Montreal.

Bruins And Rask Have Busy Schedule Ahead

News: With Sunday's game against the Panthers being the first of 34 games in a 63-day span, the Boston Globe notes that Tuukka Rask may give way to backup Anton Khudobin more going forward.

Analysis: The report suggests that with Tuukka Rask having started 12 of the Bruins' 15 games to date, Khudobin could start against the Islanders on Tuesday. Either way, the Bruins' next back-to-back set of games is on tap this coming Saturday and Sunday, with each goalie seeming likely to get a start in that span.

Bruins' Rask Stops 24, Beats Bolts

News:Tuukka Rask saved 24 of 26 shots Thursday in a win over the Lightning.

Analysis: Though he gave up a 2-0 lead, the Bruins rebuilt it to 4-2 and kept it there, giving Tuukka Rask his eighth win in 11 starts. He remains one of the better goaltending options behind a strong Bruins team.

Rangers Get To Bruins' Rask

Analysis: It wasn't the sharpest outing for Tuukka Rask, who had a clear view of Derek Stepan's wrist shot (the second Rangers' goal) and then muffed an Anton Stralman shot that slipped past him to bring the score to 3-0. To his credit, Rask shook the bad goals off and the Bruins stormed back to tie the game with a pair of late goals notched with an empty net. Rask figures to remain busy the rest of the month, with the team's next set of back-to-back games not until March 2-3.

Bruins' Rask Will Start Tuesday

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will go head to head against the Rangers' Henrik Lundqvist while trying to keep the high-scoring trio of Brad Richards, Rick Nash and Marion Gaborik at bay. The Bruins' netminder should be plenty recharged, having not played in six days due to a postponement Saturday and a spot start for Anton Khubodin on Sunday.

Bruins Expected To Start Rask Against Rangers

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start Tuesday's game against the Rangers.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who sports a 6-1-1 record and a 1.97 GAA to date, should be well rested after giving way to backup Anton Khudobin on Sunday. Rask's last start came Feb. 6 against the Canadiens, thanks to the postponement of Saturday's game against the Lightning.

Bruins Prepare Both Rask And Khudobin For Sunday

News: Coach Claude Julien noted that the Bruins have not decided whether Tuukka Rask or Anton Khudobin will start Sunday's game against the Sabres.

Analysis: Julien noted after Sunday morning's skate that both Tuukka Rask and Khudobin are preparing to play in the team's evening tilt. We suspect that the plan was for each goalie to start a game this weekend, with back-to-back contests slated, but the cancellation of Saturday's game gives the team some flexibility. To date, Rask has started eight of the Bruins' nine games, so if Khudobin gets the nod Sunday it would simply be a case of the team giving him a turn in order to help him stay sharp.

Bruins' Rask Thwarts Habs

Analysis: Heading into the game, Tuukka Rask's record against the Canadiens was an unsightly 1-6-1, but Wednesday's effort has to be a confidence builder for 25-year-old Finn within the framework of what is perhaps the Bruins' most intense rivalry.

Bruins' Expected To Start Rask Against Habs

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start in goal for the Bruins on Wednesday against the Canadiens, the Montreal Gazette reports.

Analysis: In nine career games against the Canadiens, Tuukka Rask's record is an unsightly 1-6-1, with a .908 save percentage and 2.76 goals-against average. That said, Rask is off to a solid start this season, with a 5-1-1 record and a 2.10 GAA, despite giving up six goals on 31 shots last Thursday against Buffalo.

Bruins' Rask Gets Starting Nod Saturday Vs. Leafs

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes Saturday against the Maple Leafs, according to Joe Haggerty of CSNNE.

Analysis: The Bruins have not missed Tim Thomas at all so far this season, as Tuukka Rask has grabbed the starting job and run with it. He is 4-1-1 this season with a 2.44 GAA and .909 save percentage. He will continue to see the majority of starts for the B's with Anton Khudobin backing him up.

Bruins Tab Rask For Thursday Start

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is coming off one of his better efforts of the season Tuesday, as he saved 25 of 26 shots in a win over the Devils. He's been excellent overall in his first season as a full-time goalie, yielding a record of 4-0-1 and saving 93.2 percent of attempted shots on goal.

Rask Backstops Bruins To Shootout Win

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 25 of 26 shots Tuesday against the Devils and prevailed over Johan Hedberg in the shootout.

Analysis: It doesn't show up in the box score, but Tuukka Rask stopped five of the six shootout attempts -- impressive. He's off to a fantastic start to the year, allowing less than two goals per game.

Bruins' Rask Gets Start In Goal Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask will start in goal Tuesday against the Devils, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Backup Anton Khudobin made his first start of the season Monday, so the Bruins will go back to their top goaltender in Tuukka Rask, who is 3-0-1 on the season. Rask has fared well in the past against the Devils, posting a 1.29 GAA, including a shutout, in his three starts against them.

Bruins' Rask May Get Day Off

News:Tuukka Rask, who has started Boston's first four games, may not get the start Monday against Carolina, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: The Globe is speculating that backup Anton Khudobin will likely make his season debut Monday. But a decision as to which goalie starts against the Hurricanes has not been made by head coach Claude Julien yet. The Bruins are facing their first back-to-back set Monday and Tuesday, so it would appear likely that Tuukka Rask gets a night off against Carolina or New Jersey the following night.

Bruins' Rask Grabs Third Win

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 24 shots in Friday's 4-2 win over the Islanders giving him his third win in four starts.

Analysis: As expected, Tuukka Rask has played solidly this season after taking over the Boston crease while Tim Thomas holes himself up somewhere in the Rocky Mountains. Expect Rask to be in goal most nights as he looks to establish himself as one of the league's top netminders while benefitting from having one of the league's best squads in front of him.

Bruins' Rask To Start On Friday

News:Tuukka Rask is likely to start in goal Friday for the Bruins against the Islanders, according to The Boston Globe.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has overall been solid to start the season for the Bruins going 2-0-1 with a 1.95 GAA. He has not yet received a game off, so look for him to be rested sometime in the near future.

Bruins' Rask Takes Loss Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask gave up four goals on 33 shots in a losing effort against the Rangers on Wednesday night.

Analysis: After playing well in his first two starts, a tough matchup on the road Wednesday kept Tuukka Rask from his third victory of the young season. By all indications, he's positioned to have a very large share of the workload over Anton Khudobin this season.

Bruins' Likely To Roll With Rask Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask most likely will start Wednesday's game against the Rangers, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: With Tuukka Rask off to strong start, backup Anton Khudobin might have to wait until one of the Bruins' back-to-back games (against Carolina and New Jersey) next Monday or Tuesday to make his first start of the season.

Rask Backstops Bruins' Win Monday

Analysis: Though both teams recorded 27 shots in the game, the Bruins clanked several pucks off the post Monday, so Tuukka Rask could have easily earned the win in regulation time with a little luck. Next up for the Bruins are the Rangers on Wednesday, a game that we tentatively expect Rask to start.

Bruins Roll With Rask Monday

News:Tuukka Rask will start Monday's game against the Jets, Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun reports.

Analysis: It's possible that the Bruins will wait until their first set of back-to back games (next Monday and Tuesday) to deploy backup Anton Khudobin. Of course, they could decide to start Khudobin on Friday against the Islanders (following Wednesday's contest against the Rangers) in order to get him some work before then.

Bruins' Rask Gets Starting Nod Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes for Saturday's season opener against the Rangers, according to WEEI 97.3 FM.

Analysis: With no Tim Thomas pushing him for playing time, Tuukka Rask figures to get the majority of starts for the B's this season. He still needs to prove he can carry the load all by himself, but his numbers from last season (2.05 GAA, .929 save percentage) suggest he's up for the task.

Bruins' Rask Ready For Starting Gig

News:Tuukka Rask is preparing to work as the Bruins' starting goalie this year after signing a one-year deal worth $3.5 million in the offseason, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will take over for Tim Thomas, who has opted to take the season off. He probably could have signed a long-term deal, but will have the chance to earn even more money if he lives up to expectations this year.

Bruins' Rask Set To Head To Boston To Wait For Lockout To End

News:Tuukka Rask is slated to return to Boston after he plays his last game for Pilsen of the Czech league on Friday, the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask suffered a minor groin injury a few weeks ago, but once he got past that, he recorded a 6-2 record with a spiffy 1.85 GAA and .936 save percentage in his NHL lockout stint with Pilsen that he has decided to cut short.

Bruins' Rask Tweaks Groin

News:Tuukka Rask, who is playing for HC Plezen in the Czech League during the NHL lockout, pulled himself out of Tuesday's game after the first period with a minor groin injury, the Boston Herald reports. "I slightly pulled my groin, but it's not serious," Rask said. "I had groin problems last year, so I took a little rest as a precaution."

Analysis:Tuukka Rask suffered a groin strain back on March 3, which ended his regular season, but he was able to suit up as a backup as the playoffs progressed. In seven games for Plezen to date, Rask has a spiffy 1.94 GAA and .932 save percentage. Assuming his injury doesn't linger -- and the hope is that he will play Friday -- Rask is eventually slated to work as the No. 1 goalie for the Bruins, with Tim Thomas prepared to sit out the (upcoming?) NHL season.

Bruins' Rask To Suit Up For Czech Club

News:Tuukka Rask will sign with HC Plzen of the Czech Republic during the NHL lockout, ESPN.com reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask posted a 2.05 GAA and a .929 save percentage in 23 games with the Bruins last season. Prior to the lockout, he was slated to take over as the team's No. 1 goaltender after incumbent Tim Thomas announced he would take a year off.

Rask Signs One-Year Deal With Bruins

News:Tuukka Rask agreed to a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Bruins on Thursday, TSN's Bob McKenzie reports.

Analysis: The contract is a relative bargain for a goaltender who would have finished last season with the sixth best GAA and fifth best save percentage had he played enough games to qualify. With Tim Thomas planning to sit out the upcoming campaign, Tuukka Rask is primed for a big jump up the fantasy rankings. If he stays healthy and he performs as well as many think he will, Rask could be in for a major payday next season.

Rask In Line To Be Bruins' Top Goalie

News: With Tim Thomas confirming his plans to take the coming season off, Tuukka Rask is in line to be the Bruins' top goalie in 2012-13, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Anton Khudobin is in line to be his top backup, but assuming Thomas sticks to his plans, then Tuukka Rask's fantasy value gets a major boost and represents a huge (and unexpected) bonus for those who have retained him in keeper formats.

Bruins' Rask Intends To Stay In Boston

News:Tuukka Rask, a free agent, sees Boston as a good situation and hopes to re-sign with the team, according to the Bruins' official Twitter page.

Analysis: Although Tuukka Rask has yet to begin negotiating a new contract with the Bruins, he appears to feel content with his role as the backup to Tim Thomas. Rask may also stand to benefit if he re-signs due to his potential to inherit the starting job, as there's been talk that the Bruins may trade Thomas. While Rask doesn't figure to get the bulk of the playing time if both he and Thomas stay with Boston, he was nonetheless excellent in a backup role this season, posting a record of 11-8-3 and a 2.05 GAA.

Bruins' Rask Making Progress

News: After working with strength and conditioning Coach John Whitesides, Tuukka Rask (abdominal/groin strain) skated with goaltending Coach Bob Essensa on Monday, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: It's uncertain whether or not Tuukka Rask will be available early on in the playoffs, but it appears as though he'll be able to back up Tim Thomas before too long. Rask's value in playoff pools is minimal in any case, since Thomas is slated to start most, if not all, of the team's postseason contests, barring an injury.

Bruins' Rask Could Practice Soon

Analysis:Tuukka Rask may not be ready to suit up as Tim Thomas' backup until a week or so into the playoffs, but the strong play of Anton Khudobin on Thursday has lessened the urgency for him to return.

Bruins' Rask Making Progress

News:Tuukka Rask (abdominal/groin strain) has been getting time on the ice for several days now, the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask can probably now be considered in the day-to-day category, not so much for the regular season, but for the playoffs. While it's not a lock, he appears to have a shot at being ready to back up Tim Thomas to start the postseason.

Bruins' Rask Making Progress

Analysis: The report adds that Tuukka Rask is ahead of schedule, noting that he could be ready soon enough to back up Tim Thomas for Game 1 of the first round of the playoffs. If that doesn't happen though, Anton Khudobin is on hand to serve that role, with Marty Turco ineligible for postseason play.

Boston's Rask Looking At Six-Week Absence

News:Tuukka Rask (lower body) will likely be subjected to the worse end of his 4-to-6 week prognosis, Boston Globe writer Fluto Shinzawa reports.

Analysis: The distinction doesn't really matter to fantasy leagues given that Tuukka Rask was initially expected to miss the rest of the regular season, anyway, but this does make Boston's goalie situation for the playoffs a bit clearer.

Bruins Lose Rask Until Playoffs

News:Tuukka Rask, who suffered a lower abdomen/groin strain Saturday, almost assuredly will be unavailable until the playoffs, given his 4-6 timetable for recovery, the Boston Herald reports.

Analysis: The Bruins close out their regular season April 7, so until then they'll turn to Marty Turco and/or Michael Hutchinson to back up Tim Thomas for the time being. That is, until Anton Khudobin can come back from his wrist injury. In any case, plans to get Tuukka Rask plenty of work down the stretch in order to keep Thomas fresh have been dashed. There had been fears that Rask had suffered a serious knee or leg injury, so in some ways his diagnosis came as a relief. So far there's been nothing to suggest that he won't make a full recovery, which is good news for those who hold him in keeper formats.

Bruins' Rask Still Being Evaluated

News: The Bruins expect an update on Tuukka Rask's unspecified injury issue Monday, after a full evaluation is completed, the team's official site reports.

Analysis: It looks like Tuukka Rask may have suffered a left knee injury, but so far the Bruins have not provided any details on his status other than that he will remain out at least through Tuesday's game against Toronto.

Bruins' Rask Out At Least A Couple Of Games

News:Tuukka Rask (unspecified injury) will not be available against Toronto on Tuesday, the Boston Globe reports. "He's banged up to the point where he's certainly not going to meet us on this road trip," said Claude Julien before Sunday's road game against the Rangers.

Analysis: That rules Tuukka Rask out for the Bruins' next two games and we certainly wouldn't count on a speedy return for him after that. GM Peter Chiarelli is expected to provide additional information on Rask's status later Sunday.

Bruins' Rask On Crutches

News:Tuukka Rask, who appeared to be favoring his left knee after being injured Saturday against the Islanders, required crutches to leave TD Garden after the game, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: There's no word yet on the severity of Tuukka Rask's injury, but things don't look particularly good for him at the moment. With Anton Khodobin injured, Michael Hutchinson will serve as Tim Thomas' backup for the time being.

Bruins' Rask May Have Injured Knee

News: Though the Bruins have yet to elaborate, the Boston Herald believes that Tuukka Rask appeared to suffer a left knee injury in the second period of Saturday's loss to the Islanders.

Analysis: Either way, it didn't look good for Tuukka Rask, who was clearly in pain after suffering the injury. He has already been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Rangers, but we'd expect him to miss some time beyond that. With Anton Khodobin injured, Michael Hutchinson was recalled by the Bruins to back up Tim Thomas.

Boston's Rask To Miss Time With Injury

News:Tuukka Rask (undisclosed) left Saturday's game against the Islanders and will not travel with the Bruins to New York for Sunday's game against the Rangers, WEEI.com's D.J. Bean reports.

Analysis: The injury is believed to be in the lower body; he had to be helped off the ice by two teammates. It's not clear whether Tuukka Rask will also be unavailable for Tuesday's game against Toronto. Michael Hutchinson is expected to serve as Tim Thomas' backup as long as Rask is out.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Sabres in Shootout

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is now winless in his last six starts and hasn't recorded a win since Jan. 16. That said, on Friday, Rask, who had been fighting the puck at times of late, played with the sort of poise and calm that netted him good results earlier this season. Going forward, Tim Thomas seems destined to see a majority of the starts in goal for the Bruins, but Friday's effort (which garnered a point for the Bruins) was a step in the right direction for Rask, as he tries to right the ship.

Bruins' Rask Expected To Get The Nod Friday

News:Tuukka Rask is expected to start Friday's game against Buffalo, the Bruins' official Twitter page reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has really been struggling lately, having lost five straight starts. He has allowed no fewer than three goals in those starts, and he allowed six goals to Buffalo on Feb. 8. The 24-year-old will likely turn it around at some point but his recent play makes him a risky start.

Bruins' Rask Loses Fifth Straight

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has now dropped five straight, giving up 17 goals in that span. He'll no doubt bounce back, but with the Bruins down a pair of key forwards -- Nathan Horton and Rich Peverley -- the sooner that happens, the better.

Bruins' Rask Loses Third Straight

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 28 of 31 shots Thursday against Carolina, but Cam Ward spun a spectacular shutout on the other end.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has dropped three games in a row now, although he hasn't played all that badly -- in fact, he was the game's third star Thursday. He's likely to play again this weekend, as the B's host Pittsburgh and Washington on Saturday and Sunday.

Bruins Turn To Rask Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask will get the start in goal Thursday against the Hurricanes, according to the Bruins' official Twitter feed.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask has definitely been part of the rotation with Tim Thomas lately, and if he keeps up his shiny stats there's little reason that won't continue. This will be Rask's 19th start of the season, and he'll carry a 1.82 GAA into a home contest where the Bruins are heavily favored.

Rask Roughed Up In Boston Loss

News:Tuukka Rask surrendered four goals on 22 shots in Tuesday's loss to Washington. He has allowed seven goals in bis last two starts.

Analysis: Consider this a rough patch for Tuukka Rask, who has been more reliable than a number of starting goaltenders during this season. Expect him to continue seeing one or two starts every five games as Boston's run at repeating continues. He's played too well this season to read much into these last two starts.

Rask To Start Tuesday For Bruins

News:Tuukka Rask will get the start Tuesday against the Capitals, according to Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe.

Analysis: Maybe this was a decree from the White House, but regardless, this will be Tuukka Rask's second start of the team's last three games. Both Rask and Tim Thomas have been beyond excellent this season, so there are very few match-ups, even on the road, where whoever's starting for Boston isn't a smart play.

Rask's Seven-Game Win Streak Ends In Bruins' Loss

News:Tuukka Rask was the hard-luck loser Saturday after Marian Gaborik's overtime goal gave the Rangers a late win.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask stopped 30 of the first 32 shots he faced, but the final one sneaked by to saddle Rask with his first loss in his last eight starts. The Bruins play twice more before All-Star weekend, which likely means one more start apiece for Rask and Tim Thomas leading into the break.

Bruins' Rask Set To Face Rangers

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes for Saturday's game against the Rangers, according to the Bruins' official Twitter page.

Analysis: Goals will be at a premium with Tuukka Rask and Henrik Lundqvist between the pipes for their respective teams. Lundqvist is currently fourth in league GAA and third in save percentage - both categories in which Rask leads the league.

Rask In Line To Start For Bruins

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice at Monday's morning skate, according to the Bruins' official Twitter feed.

Analysis: Look for Tuukka Rask, owner of a sparkling 1.59 GAA and .945 save percentage, to start Monday's game, with Tim Thomas having gotten the nod in the B's last two contests. Rask will be looking for his sixth straight winning start Monday.

Bruins Go With Rask Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask will get the start Tuesday against the Jets, according to the Bruins' official Twitter feed.

Analysis: The Bruins are at home and heavy favorites in this one, and Tuukka Rask has .949 save percentage and sparkling 1.49 GAA this season, so even with the heavy slate Tuesday, this looks like one of the better goalie plays on the board.

Bruins' Rask Spins Shutout In Rout

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all 25 shots he faced and got nine goals of offensive support in Thursday's shellacking of the Flames.

Analysis: There are few, if any, goalies in the NHL playing better than Tuukka Rask right now, and yet he's not even Boston's starter. Rask has a five-game winning streak and has pitched shutouts in three of his last four outings.

Rask Strong Again In Boston Win Wednesday

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 21 of 22 shots Wednesday night to help get the Bruins past the Coyotes 2-1 in overtime.

Analysis: It was a fairly easy game for the young netminder as he didn't have to stop any shots in the extra frame. While getting spot duty behind No. 1 Tim Thomas, Tuukka Rask has picked up four straight wins and has lowered his GAA to 1.61 and upped his SV% to .945.

Boston's Rask Shuts Door On Florida Friday

News:Tuukka Rask picked up his second shutout of the year Friday night by stopping all 30 shots he faced as Boston routed Florida, 8-0.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask would likely be the No. 1 goalie on most other teams, but because he backs up Tim Thomas, there's no hope of that happening in Boston. He's appeared in only 12 games this year, but has been consistently excellent in spot duty, sporting a 7-4-1 record with a .944 save percentage and a 1.66 GAA.

Bruins Go With Rask Before Break

News:Tuukka Rask will start Friday night against the Panthers, according to the Bruins' official Twitter feed.

Analysis: It'll be his first start since December 13, but when he does play to give Tim Thomas a breather his numbers have sparkled, with a 1.82 GAA and .939 save percentage on the season. At home against a Panthers team that played Thursday and lost Stephen Weiss, Tuukka Rask makes for a smart play.

Rask, Bruins, Blank Kings

Analysis: The talented Finn is making his case for more playing time quite emphatically with strong performances in his last two games. Tuukka Rask is arguably one of the top backups in the league and the fantasy hockey world, right up there with Cory Schneider and Johan Hedberg. Tim Thomas is having another Vezina-worthy season, but Rask will get a start every few games and can help owners with their goalie stats even if he is not securing wins in bunches.

Bruins Go With Rask Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask will start against the Kings on Tuesday, according to the Bruins' Official Twitter Page.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask will spell Tim Thomas, who will make the start for the Bruins on Wednesday. Rask has allowed a mere six goals in his last five appearances and continues to be one of the better backup keepers in the game.

Rask Saves 21 In Boston Win

Analysis:Tuukka Rask's start came as a bit of a surprise as the team just didn't give a lot of notice he'd be between the pipes. He's now 4-3-1 on the season and is on track to start about the same number of games as he did last year. He won't move into the starter's role until Tim Thomas' contract expires after next year. Value him accordingly.

Bruins' Rask To Face Maple Leafs Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask will start Saturday against Toronto, according to the Bruins' official Twitter page.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask is 3-3-1 in seven starts this season, with a 2.25 GAA and .921 save percentage. He continues to play very well in a backup role to Tim Thomas and remains Boston's goalie of the future once the 37-year-old Thomas decides to hang up his skates.

Bruins' Rask Falls to Wings

Analysis: The loss snapped Tuukka Rask's three-game winning streak, but he remains a trusted backup who is on track to start about a third of the Bruins' games as long as starter Tim Thomas remains healthy.

Rask Starts For Bruins On Friday

News:Tuukka Rask will be between the pipes for Friday's game against the Red Wings, according to the Bruins' official Twitter page.

Analysis: The Red Wings are averaging 3.8 goals over their last nine games, but Tuukka Rask has allowed just six goals in his last three starts, all Bruins wins. Rask will have his work cut out for him Friday, but with the Bruins on a 10-game winning streak, and playing at home, consider him an above average fantasy option Friday.

Bruins' Rask Notches Shootout Win

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 30 of 31 shots through regulation and OT, then two of three in the shootout to pick up his third win Thursday against Columbus.

Analysis: He remains one of the best -- if not the best -- backup goalies in the NHL and is on pace to start precisely a third of the Bruins' games this year, which makes Tuukka Rask useful in a variety of fantasy formats.

Bruins' Start Rask Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask will start in goal for the Bruins on Thursday against the Blue Jackets, Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who is in nets to give top guy Tim Thomas a breather, is in a good spot Thursday, as the Bruins have reeled off six straight wins, while racking up 34 goals in that span. Meanwhile, Columbus checks in with a 3-13-1 record.

Bruins' Rask Picks Up Second Win

News:Tuukka Rask, making just his fifth start of the season, improved to 2-3-0 by stopping 27 of 30 shots to beat the Oilers on Thursday.

Analysis: He was helped out by a six-goal outburst from the Bruins' offense. Tim Thomas is good for about two-thirds of the starts in net for Boston, but Tuukka Rask is a solid option out there whenever he gets the chance. The job will be his eventually.

Bruins' Rask In Line To Start Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice after Thursday's morning skate, according to the Bruins' official Twitter page.

Analysis: The first goalie off typically starts the same night, so expect Tuukka Rask to be between the pipes for Thursday's game against the Oilers. Rask will be looking for his second victory of the season after picking up his first in his last start Monday.

Bruins' Rask Starting Monday

News:Tuukka Rask will be in net for the Bruins on Monday in their matchup with the Islanders, according to Joe Haggerty of CSNNE.

Analysis:Tuukka Rask was supposed to see more game action this year, but to this point of the season he's only started three games. He hasn't posted very strong numbers in his three outings as he's allowed seven goals in his last two starts, but he should be able to turn around his performance with a little bit more consistency in terms of playing time.

Bruins' Rask Drops Third Straight

Analysis:Tuukka Rask, who has stopped 77-of-85 shots overall, now sits at 0-3 thanks to the Bruins' sluggish start. The team has the talent to snap out of it, but as Tim Thomas' backup, Rask will continue to see a minority of the starts in nets for the B's.

Rask Expected To Start For Bruins On Saturday

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice following Saturday's morning skate, according to the Bruins' official Twitter page.

Analysis: The first goalie off the ice usually starts the same night, so expect Tuukka Rask to get the nod for Saturday's matchup with the Canadiens. Rask is 0-2-0 with a .915 save percentage and 2.52 goals-against average in two starts this season.

Rask In Line To Start For Bruins Tuesday Night

News:Tuukka Rask was the first goalie off the ice following the Bruins' Tuesday morning skate, according to the team's official Twitter page.

Analysis: Expect Tuukka Rask to be between the pipes for Tuesday's game against the Hurricanes. In his only other start this season, Rask picked up the loss despite stopping all but one of the Avalanche's 36 shots. Fantasy owners will be hoping a similar effort produces a different result Tuesday night.

Rask Strong In Boston Loss

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all but one of 36 shots in Monday's loss to Colorado.

Analysis: The good news is that Tuukka Rask supplied owners that rolled him Monday with strong peripheral stats, but the win was elusive. Rask never saw the wrister from Milan Hejduk, but when you lose 1-0, it's hard to blame your netminder. Boston doesn't break the bank in scoring, but Rask is one of the backups in a favorable situation that is projected to see more playing time. Efforts like Monday's will ensure more starts for Rask.

B's Starting Rask On Monday

News:Tuukka Rask will start Monday against Colorado, the Bruins' official Twitter feed reports.

Analysis: He'll be in goal after Tim Thomas started the first two games of the season. Tuukka Rask has made just one career start against the Avs and surrendered four goals on 22 shots in the outing. Still, he's good play at home for Monday's matinee.

Bruins' Rask Defers to Thomas Again

News:Tuukka Rask's teammate, Tim Thomas, will start Saturday's game against the Lightning, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: Coach Claude Julien has been emphasizing the need to rest Thomas periodically with an eye towards the long haul, but this early in the season, getting their Vezina Trophy winner (and the team) win No. 1 seems to be the priority Saturday. Tuukka Rask will get his work in time, perhaps as soon as Monday against the Avalanche.

Rask Solid In Boston Win

Analysis:Tuukka Rask reported no issues with his knee after last Thursday's debut, which is excellent news for the Bruins. Rask's more talented than most backups in the NHL, but his value lies with the health of Tim Thomas. Regardless, he's worth stashing on your roster as the requisite Thomas handcuff or a late-round flier over starting goalies on lesser teams.

Bruins' Rask Gets Knee Scoped

Analysis: Rask, who was spotted at Boston's Fenway Park Tuesday night with a wrap around his knee, now has plenty of time to recover from the minor procedure and his knee is not expected to be an issue when the Bruins next take the ice.

Bruins' Rask To Undergo Minor Knee Procedure

News: Rask will undergo minor knee surgery to repair a slight cartilage tear in his meniscus, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Rask, who apparently played with the injury for much of the season, dressed for every playoff game and was available to play, which underlines the minor nature of his injury. He'll return to the B's next season to capably back up Vezina Trophy winner Tim Thomas. On the heels of a strong run (1.97 GAA and .931 save percentage in 45 games) in 2009-10, Rask was on track to be the Bruins' No. 1 goalie this past season, but Thomas quickly reclaimed that gig and never let up. Rask finished the campaign with an 11-14-2 record with a 2.67 GAA and .918 save percentage in 29 games.

B's Rask Stops 28 Shots Saturday

Analysis: With the Bruins locked into at least the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, Rask could see an extra start or two down the stretch if it's decided that Tim Thomas needs a little bit of rest before the playoffs begin.

B's Starting Rask Against Thrashers

News: Rask will start against Atlanta on Saturday, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: With a weaker opponent coming to town, Rask is a good option for those who have been rostering him as insurance for Tim Thomas this season. Over his last 10 starts, Rask is 6-3-1 while he's carried a 2.26 GAA and .923 save percentage over his last six games.

Rask Stars For Bruins Saturday

News: Rask will start Saturday against the Rangers, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Rask will return to the net after spending the last two games as Tim Thomas' backup. He's been somewhat shaky in his last three starts, allowing four goals in losses to Nashville and Montreal, sandwiched around a shootout win over the Blue Jackets.

Boston's Rask: Emotions Earn Yank

News: Rask let his emotions get the better of him Saturday when he appeared in relief of Tim Thomas.

Analysis: He allowed one goal on seven shots but immediately started yipping at his defender, Dennis Seidenberg, who appeared to have screened the young netminder on the goal. The outburst appeared muted but it carried on quietly during every stoppage of play the rest of that period. Rask has a history of emotional outbursts -- just search the phrase "Tuukka Rask milk crate" if you can't remember that video legacy. Rask was pulled after the second and we can't help but think it was the result of this little snit. He's talented but emotional friction between teammates won't help a playoff push. And it won't help his future, either.

Rask Loses For Bruins In OT

Analysis: Rask has started just four games in March, allowing four goals in both his losses, but just two goals total in his two wins. Tim Thomas continues to play at a high level, but Rask is cutting into his starts anyway -- maybe just to keep the 36-year-old Thomas fresh for the playoffs.

Rask Starts For Bruins Thursday

News: Rask will start in goal Thursday against Nashville, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: Rask was the first goalie off the ice at the morning skate, which is usually an indication that a goalie will start, but the Bruins didn't make things official until 30 minutes or so before game time.

Bruins Could Roll With Rask

News: Rask was first off the ice for the Bruins on Thursday morning, but coach Claude Julien would not declare him the starter for the team's evening game against Nashville, the Predators' official site reports.

Analysis: Being off the ice first in the morning is usually an indicator that a goalie will get the start for the B's, but we'll look for confirmation from a Boston source prior to the game before signing off on Rask's assignment Thursday.

Bruins Likely To Stick With Rask

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice for the Bruins on Thursday, indicating that he will likely start the team's evening contest against Nashville, Joshua Cooper of The Tennessean reports.

Analysis: Rask, who stopped 34-of-36 shots in Tuesday's 3-2 shootout win over Columbus, will apparently get the nod again Thursday as the B's look for their first back-to-back wins since March 1 and March 3.

Bruins' Rask Picks Up Shootout Win Tuesday

Analysis: Rask also stopped all three attempts he faced in the shootout. He hasn't gotten all that much playing time with the fantastic season Tim Thomas is having, but he's always a decent fantasy start on the nights that he does get the call.

Bruins' Rask Gets Tuesday Start Against Jackets

News: Rask will start Tuesday's game against Columbus, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: Rask has been getting the nod about every third game for the past month, so this start comes as no big surprise. Despite being relegated to the backup role behind Tim Thomas this season, Rask continues to play well whenever he does get the call. He is 4-1 over his past five starts with a .918 SV% and 2.22 GAA. He's worth owning in deeper fantasy formats, and going forward will likely be the Bruins' goalie of the future once the 36-year-old Thomas decides to hang 'em up.

Bruins' Rask Loses To Montreal Tuesday

News: Rask stopped 22 of 26 shots in Tuesday's 4-1 loss to Montreal.

Analysis: Rask's four-game winning streak came to an end with the loss. Rask's record this season is 9-12-1. When you compare that to Tim Thomas' record of 29-8-7, it's easy to see why Rask has lost the number one job.

Boston's Rask Posts Shutout Of Ottawa Tuesday

Analysis: Rask has become a forgotten man with Tim Thomas having such a good season, but he's still a solid goalie and he makes for a good fantasy option whenever he gets the call. That's four wins in a row for Rask.

Bruins' Rask Faces Ottawa Tuesday

News: Rask will square off against Craig Anderson in Tuesday night's game at Ottawa, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: Rask will look to extend his win streak to four games Tuesday and while the matchup looks good -- the Sens are last in the East with 51 points -- Ottawa was victorious in three of four games to finish up the month of February.

Bruins' Likely To Start Rask Tuesday

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice after the Bruins' morning skate, indicating that he is the likely starter Tuesday evening at Ottawa, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: Rask is riding a three-game win streak and the Bruins have won five in a row overall, so this matchup looks good for him, with the Sens (sellers at the NHL trade deadline) last in the Eastern Conference with 51 points.

Bruins' Rask Only Needs 15 Saves For Victory

News: Rask only faced 17 shots Sunday against the Oilers, and while he let in two goals, he still got the win.

Analysis: Rask has a solid .917 SV% this season, but he's also only appeared in 21 games due to the excellence of Tim Thomas. As such, while he makes a fine spot start option, he's not worth owning in many formats.

Bruins' Rask Could Start Sunday

News: The Boston Globe believes that Rask will get the start Sunday against the Oilers.

Analysis: While this has yet to be confirmed, with the B's having played Saturday against Vancouver, starting Rask on Sunday would make sense, with the idea of helping keep Tim Thomas (a 3-1 winner Saturday) fresh.

Bruins' Rask Handles The Senators

News: Rask only allowed two goals on 34 shots to win Friday's game against the Senators, 4-2.

Analysis: Rask ended up winning the back-to-back road set that began with Thursday's tilt against the Islanders. He has the benefit of a powerful offense working in front of him, but not even half the workload that starting goalie Tim Thomas has seen.

Bruins Roll With Rask

News: Rask will start Thursday's game against the Islanders, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: Rask will give Tim Thomas, who has given up eight goals over his last two starts, a chance to recharge his batteries. The Bruins have dropped three straight, while the Isles have won four straight, so this isn't quite the dream matchup it would have been earlier this month.

Boston's Rask Pulled In Loss Friday

News: Rask gave up five goals on only 19 shots and was pulled after two periods in Boston's 6-1 loss to Detroit on Friday.

Analysis: While his season save percentage was .922 entering Friday's contest, Rask only has five wins on the season and 10 losses. With Tim Thomas getting the majority of starts, Rask's fantasy value is not that high right now.

Bruins' Rask Stalls Stars

Analysis: The start was Rask's 16th, as he continues to tale a back seat to Tim Thomas, who has gotten the call 36 times. The B's have a fairly light slate (three games) over the next nine days, so don't be surprised if Rask doesn't see much action until things pick up schedule-wise on the 13th of February.

Bruins' Rask Likely Thursday Starter

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice Thursday morning, indicating he'll start at night against Dallas, according to the Bruins' Official Twitter Feed.

Analysis: Much was expected of Rask before the season started, and while he hasn't been awful with a .920 save percentage, he's really lost the playing time to Tim Thomas, who has 36 starts to Rask's 15 prior to Thursday. A good start here following the All-Star break is important if he wants to start to even out the PT.

Rask First Boston Goalie Off Ice Thursday

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice Thursday and is expected to start against Dallas, BostonBruins.com reports.

Analysis: Although Rask has just a 4-10-1 record on the year, his 92.3 save percentage and the fact that Boston has one of the league's most productive offenses means the odds are that record will start improving.

Bruins, Rask Fall to Sabres

News: Rask surrendered four goals on 33 shots Thursday against Buffalo, his third loss in his last four starts.

Analysis: Rask can't seem to catch a break of late and allowed a late goal while the Bruins were trailing 3-2 that bounced off him and then ricocheted in off Jason Pominville. Rask will get the odd start in relief of Tim Thomas, but he's had hard luck with bounces and a lack of goal support.

Rask Confirmed As Bruins' Starter Thursday

News: Rask will square off against the Sabres' Ryan Miller Thursday evening, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: Rask's .926 save percentage is a better indication of his play than his 4-9-1 record. That's a mark that figures to look better in time, that is, once he gets some better offensive support from his teammates.

Rask Likely Bruins' Starter Thursday

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice after the Bruins' morning skate, indicating that he will likely start Thursday's game against the Sabres, the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Tim Thomas had back-to-back starts Monday and Tuesday, so Rask will get a chance between the pipes for the B's on Thursday. His record is a less-than-spiffy 4-9-1, but Rask's .926 save percentage is very respectable and an indicator that he just needs his teammates to produce better in front of him to improve on his record.

Bruins' Rask Falls To Penguins

News: Rask stopped 33 of 36 shots in Saturday's loss to the Penguins.

Analysis: Rask played well enough in the loss, but was outdueled by Pittsburgh's Marc-Andre Fleury, who stopped 44 Boston shots Saturday. The B's have back-to-back games against the Hurricanes on Monday and Tuesday, with Tim Thomas likely to return to the nets for at least one of those contests.

Rask Allows Bruins To Rally

Analysis: Rask had just one win in his last four starts entering Monday but was able to shake off a 2-0 deficit to allow Boston to rally for the victory. He's a good play in daily leagues if you need a spot start, as Boston has played well defensively but needs to score more. Rask is firmly planted as Boston's No. 2, but it's a nice problem to have if you are the Bruins' coach.

Rask Likely Bruins' Starter Monday

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice Monday, indicating that he will start the Bruins' night game against the Penguins, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Rask's 3-8-1 record is an eyesore, but he's been decent overall, with a 2.57 GAA and .928 save percentage. With a little luck, and some scoring support, he could turn things around in a hurry, but he's still working behind Tim Thomas.

Hard Luck Continues For Bruins' Rask

News: Rask had a good game Thursday against Minnesota, stopping 31 of 33 shots, but took the loss to fall to 3-8-1.

Analysis: Rask had had simply a terrible run of luck this season. putting up a .927 save percentage, fourth-best in the NHL, but getting absolutely no offensive support. The Bruins have scored two or fewer goals in nine of his 12 starts.

Rask Strong In Bruins' Victory

News: Rask turned aside 36 shots Monday in a 2-1 win over Toronto.

Analysis: It was a good showing for Rask following an early exit from his start Saturday against Buffalo. Rask befuddled Toronto but has started just four games since December 9 because of how well Tim Thomas has played this season.

Boston's Rask Yanked Against Buffalo

News: Rask was pulled Saturday against Buffalo after allowing three goals on 16 shots in the first period.

Analysis: He was relieved by Tim Thomas who stopped 16 shots over the final two periods but didn't stop a shot during the shootout. It was the Wild West on Saturday night; erase it from your memory and use him like you normally would.

Rask to Start For Bruins on Saturday

News: Rask will start in goal in Saturday's game against the Sabres, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Head coach Claude Julien noted regular goalie Tim Thomas may be a bit tired after starting seven straight games, so he will go with Rask Saturday in an effort to give Thomas a rest. Rask has won just twice this season, but he will be a decent option if you need him Saturday against an average Sabres offense.

Bruins' Rask Takes the Loss Wednesday

News: Rask stopped 32-of-35 shots in Wednesday's 3-2 loss to Buffalo.

Analysis: The loss drops Rask to 2-7-1 on the season. As has been the case more often than not, he didn't play bad, but by the same token he wasn't spectacular and for whatever reason, the Bruins have simply been playing better in front of teammate Tim Thomas thus far. We expect the pucks to start bouncing Rask's way eventually, but Thomas, who we would guess will start Thursday against Montreal, is currently locked in as the team's top netminder.

Bruins' Rask Likely Starter Wednesday

News: Rask was the first goalie to head for the dressing room following Wednesday's brief morning workout, an indication that he'll get the start in the Bruins' night game against the Sabres, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Rask, who was 4-1 with a 1.43 GAA against Buffalo last season, looks poised to man the pipes Wednesday, as the B's play the first end of back-to-back road games. The team plays Montreal on Thursday, a game we'd expect Tim Thomas to start, if in fact Rask does get the nod Wednesday.

Bruins Roll With Rask Sunday

News: Rask has been confirmed as the Bruins' starter for Sunday's game against the Thrashers, the team's Official site reports.

Analysis: He's 3-0-0 with a 0.97 GAA, .963 save percentage and two shutouts in three career starts against Atlanta, plus the B's are coming off a 3-0 blanking at the hands of Carolina on Friday, so Rask will get a chance to help get the B's back on track Sunday.

Bruins' Rask Likely Monday Starter

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice after Monday's morning skate, suggesting that he will be the starter in nets for the team's night game against the Lightning, the Bruins' official site reports.

Analysis: Rask is coming off a sharp effort Thursday in which he blanked the Panthers. He's still currently working behind Tim Thomas, but it's not out of the question that Rask's workload may increase in the coming weeks, with the B's in a fairly busy stretch, schedule-wise.

Bruins' Rask Stops 41 in Shutout

News: Rask faced 41 shots Thursday against the Panthers, but he turned each and every one away for his first shutout -- and first win -- of the season.

Analysis: Rask came into this game 0-4-1, but it wasn't for lack of playing well. Thursday was the first time in Rask's five starts that his team scored more than two goals for him. Although Tim Thomas got off to a red-hot start to the year, Rask is an excellent young goalie with a bright future.

Rask Gets Start for Bruins Thursday

News: Rask will be in goal for the Bruins on Thursday against the Panthers, the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Rask will get a chance to man the Bruins' net Thursday, with the team having played Wednesday with Tim Thomas between the pipes. Despite his 0-4-1 record, Rask has loads of upside, but as long as Thomas remains hot, he'll work in a backup role for the B's.

Bruins' Rask Still Seeking First Win

News: Rask surrendered three goals on 41 shots in Thursday's loss to Montreal.

Analysis: Rask is still seeking his first win of the season and received the start with Boston having had a game on Wednesday. Rask won't earn many more starts with losses like this while Tim Thomas is piling up wins, but he did face 41 shots.

Rask Projected to Start Thursday

News: Rask is the Boston Globe's projected starting netminder for the Bruins on Thursday against the Canadiens.

Analysis: Rask only has one win in six career contests against the Habs. His fantasy value has taken a hit this season thanks to the reemergence of fellow B's netminder, Tim Thomas. Assuming Rask does, in fact, end up getting the call for a start Thursday, he will be involved in a critical matchup as the Canadiens are currently two points ahead of the Bruins, standing atop the Northeast Division.

Rask Solid for Bruins in Shootout Loss

Analysis: Rask, who remains winless this season, was sharp Saturday, but of late he has been taking a back seat to Tim Thomas, who had been red hot until being pulled from Friday's loss to Washington. The Bruins play back-to-back games Wednesday and Thursday, so it wouldn't surprise us if Rask starts one of those contests.

Bruins' Rask Expected to Start Saturday

News: Rask, who took over for Tim Thomas in the third period of Friday's 5-3 loss to Washington, turning away 12 of 13 shots, is expected to start Saturday's game against St. Louis, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: The Bruins are not punishing Thomas for giving up three goals in two periods Friday, with Rask slated to get the start because of the team's back-to-back games this weekend.

Bruins' Rask Bides His Time

News: With three games in four nights (Wednesday, Friday and Saturday) this week, Rask could get a chance to start against St. Louis on Saturday at TD Garden, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: With fellow netminder Tim Thomas 6-0-0 with a 0.50 goals-against average and a .984 save percentage, the Bruins will continue to ride the hot hand, but it's important to try to keep Rask sharp, as down the road we expect him to have a chance to embark on a hot streak of his own.

Rangers Beat Bruins' Rask

Analysis: With the Bruins having gone with the red-hot Tim Thomas in their previous four games, Rask (who didn't play badly Saturday) was making his first start since a season-opening loss to Phoenix. The Bruins don't play again until Thursday, against the Maple Leafs, a game Thomas is likely to start.

Bruins' Rask Expected to Start Saturday

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice for the Bruins Saturday morning, indicating that he will start the team's evening contest against the Rangers, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: The first goalie off in the morning usually gets the start for the Bruins, though that wasn't case Thursday. In this case, it seems like a good idea to get Rask some work, since he's been idle since the season opener, with the team having gone with the hot hand (Tim Thomas) four games in a row.

Bruins' Rask Expected to Start Thursday

News: Rask was the first goalie off the ice Thursday morning, indicating that he will start the Bruins' night game against the Capitals, the Boston Globe reports.

Analysis: Since starting the team's season opener, Rask has given way to the red-hot Tim Thomas the last three games, but evidently the B's have decided to dust Rask off Thursday in order to prevent him from getting too cold/antsy. Thomas' strong play (just two goals allowed in his three starts) out of the gate has re-established him as part of the Boston netminding equation, but Rask is too talented to keep on the bench in the long-term. For now, this is a situation that has morphed into a likely time-share that favors the hot hand and down the road, we expect that Rask will put be able to put together some strong stretches of work of his own.

Rask to Start For Bruins on Saturday

News: Rask will start the Bruins' home opener on Saturday against the Coyotes, according to CSNNE's Joe Haggerty.

Analysis: Rask finished his stellar rookie season with a 22-12-5 record with a sparkling 1.97 GAA and .931 save percentage, and enters this season as the Bruins' undisputed top goaltender. There's always a chance he could suffer the dreaded sophomore jinx this year, but he would need to regress badly in order to give up the #1 job to backup Tim Thomas. For now, he's worth a fantasy start every single time he takes to the ice.

Rask helps Boston steal playoff upset

News:Tuukka Rask outplayed the Olympic MVP, and the Boston Bruins eliminated Ryan Miller and the Buffalo Sabres in the first round of the NHL playoffs. Rask made 27 saves on Monday night as Boston beat Buffalo 4-3 in Game 6 and advanced to the Eastern Conference semifinals. "We wanted to close it out because we didn't want to go back to Buffalo," said Rask, who allowed an average of just over 2 goals per game. "We knew it would be tough." Boston advanced with help from a goalie who won the starting job away from U.S. Olympic backup Tim Thomas in the regular season, then knocked out the American starter in the first round of the postseason. "As good as he was, he was arguably facing the best goaltender in the league, if not more," Bruins coach Claude Julien said. "He obviously made a reputation for himself. For him to go head-to-head and come out the winner, I think it speaks volumes for how Tuukka's played."

Analysis: Julien doesn't have to sell us on Rask, who finished the regular season with a 1.97 GAA and .931 save percentage. He wrestled the starting job away from Tim Thomas and should return in 2010-11 as the Bruins' top goalie. Unless, Boston can't unload Thomas. We expect Rask will be a nice low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy goalie on Draft Day 2010.

Rask helps B's clinch playoff spot

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 33 saves Saturday in a 4-2 win over the Hurricanes that clinched a playoff spot for Boston with one game to go.

Analysis: Rask will finish the season as hockey's GAA and save percentage leader, and will try to continue his hot play into the postseason. Rask has played his way into the No. 1 goalie spot with his performance in 2009-10 and given the Bruins a headache, as they're paying Tim Thomas a lot of money to sit on the bench right now. If Boston can find some way to ship Thomas out of town this offseason, Rask could be a great sleeper Fantasy pick in 2010. The Bruins TG is a No. 2 option but with the potential to be more next season.

Rask shines against the Sabres

News: The Sabres jumped out to a 1-0 lead against the Bruins on Thursday, but Boston G Tuukka Rask stoned them the rest of the way, as the Bruins came back to win 3-1. Rask made 31 saves.

Analysis: Rask is on fire right now. He's allowed only six goals in his last five starts, four times allowing one or less. Unfortunately, he's not getting much help from his friends on the offensive end, as he's only 3-1-1 in that span despite playing so well. Rask remains a No. 2 Fantasy goalie, and the Bruins TG is also a No. 2 option.

Rask beaten early in overtime

News:Brooks Laich's power-play goal 44 seconds into overtime past Tuukka Rask gave the Washington Capitals a 3-2 win over the Boston Bruins on Monday night. Mike Knuble scored his 27th goal when he took a pass from Alex Ovechkin and in a scramble, tapped it past Rusk at 19:31 to tie the game at 2. This goal was also reviewed, but the call stood. Laich's goal came 20 seconds after Boston's Dennis Wideman was called for high-sticking, and the Capitals had the four-on-three advantage.

Analysis: Rask allowed more than one goal for the first time in five outings on Monday. He was likely to keep that streak going until the juggernaut that is the Capitals' offense showed up late in the game. Rask isn't likely to get bumped from net since he is pretty much the reason why Boston is still alive in the playoff hunt. Keep him active in Fantasy. The Bruins TG is a No. 2 option.

Rask likely to start vs. Caps

News: The Bruins' official Twitter feed reports that G Tuukka Rask was first off the ice Monday, a sure sign he is likely to start at Washington.

Analysis: Rask leads the NHL in both save percentage and GAA this season, and the Bruins will need him to be on his game Monday against one of the league's best squads. Boston is hanging on to a playoff spot by a thread and will likely rely heavily on Rask in Fantasy Week 25 (April 5-11). Continue to roll with him as a solid No. 2 Fantasy goalie.

Rask stops 27 shots in OT win

Analysis: Rask has been playing very well over the last couple of weeks, with just one poor outing in six. If the Bruins make the playoffs, Rask is clearly going to be their goalie, and he's certainly worth a shot as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie in deeper leagues for Fantasy Week 25 (April 5-11) with the way he's playing lately. The Bruins TG is also a secondary option.

Rask has shutout streak ended by SO

News: The Bruins gave goalie Tuukka Rask no offensive support during a 1-0 loss to the Panthers on Thursday. Keith Ballard scored 7:15 into the game. Ballard took a pass from Cory Stillman in the slot and put it past Rask to end the goalie's shutout string of 121 minutes, 42 seconds, including an overtime shutout of the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday. "These kinds of games, with a team who's out of the playoffs, they come into our home building and we just can't win. It's frustrating," said Rask, who stopped 19 shots. "I hope it doesn't cost us too much at the end of the day."

Analysis: Rask has allowed only one goal in his last three starts, but he has only one win in that span. That's been his luck all season. The Bruins just haven't been able to give him steady offensive support. It's one of the reasons Rask remains a No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Bruins TG is also a No. 2 option.

Rask posts fifth shutout Tuesday

News:Tuukka Rask stopped 21 shots during Tuesday's 1-0 overtime win against the Devils to pick up his fifth shutout of the season. Rask faced no more than seven shots in any period, and made three key saves in overtime. The win came a night after making 19 saves in relief of Tim Thomas, who was pulled in a 3-2 loss to the Sabres.

Analysis: Rask actually has two shutouts in 11 March outings. He has played like a standout goalie in 2009-10. It's just unfortunate that the Bruins' offense is so schizophrenic that Rask sometimes struggles for wins. Rask has emerged as a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Bruins TG is also a No. 2 option.

Rask perfect in relief outing

News: Sabres G Ryan Miller made 40 saves, including Marco Sturm's penalty shot in the first period, in a matchup of last month's USA Olympic goaltenders during a 3-2 win against Tim Thomas and the Bruins on Monday. Thomas, Miller's backup in Vancouver, was pulled following the Sabres' third goal and left the ice to jeers in the second period. He was making his second straight start after shutting out Calgary on Saturday. Tim Kennedy completed a 2-on-1 break when he slipped a shot under Thomas' left pad 6:08 into the second period. When Thomas, who made 11 saves, was lifted in favor of Tuukka Rask, he headed down the runway toward the dressing room and missed about six minutes of play. Rask finished the game with 19 saves.

Analysis: Rask also had an assist on Dennis Seidenberg's third-period goal, so he had quite the productive game off the bench. Rask he been outstanding in 2009-10 for the Bruins and is a big part why they are still in the playoff hunt. Rask has emerged as a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie.

Rask stricken by the Lightning

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask impersonated a sieve in Thursday's game against the Lightning, allowing five goals in a loss. He turned away only 13 pucks in almost 58 minutes on the ice.

Analysis: Rask had been playing well prior to Thursday's forgettable performance, allowing just six goals in his previous four starts while posting a 3-1 record. He is one of the league leaders in GAA and has done well since supplanting Tim Thomas in net. Rask has emerged as a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Bruins TG is also a No. 2 option.

Rask continues to own Atlanta

News:Tuukka Rask blanked Atlanta for the second time this season, and the Bruins kept up their mastery of the Thrashers with a crucial 4-0 victory Tuesday that extended Boston's lead for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Rask stopped a penalty shot and made 28 saves in all to beat Atlanta for the third time this season, including a pair of 4-0 victories. Rask also has a 0.97 goals-against average against Atlanta. His biggest save came on Colby Armstrong, who had scored four goals in Atlanta's last four games. Going in on a breakaway with the Thrashers trailing 2-0, the winger was hooked from behind by Dennis Wideman and awarded a penalty shot. But Armstrong failed to convert, his attempt at the upper right corner turned away by Rusk's quick glove.

Analysis: Rask hasn't just owned the Thrashers as of late. He has won three of his last four games and hasn't allowed more than three goals in any of his last seven appearances. Rask is one of the league leaders in GAA and has done well since supplanting Tim Thomas in net. Rask has emerged as a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Bruins TG is also a No. 2 option.

Rask, Bruins finally deliver for fans

News: The chorus of cheering fans was a welcome change for goalie Tuukka Rask after the Boston Bruins won just their second home game in nearly three months. The reaction to Sunday's 2-1 win over the New York Rangers was far more enjoyable than the send-off on Thursday night when the crowd didn't appreciate Boston's lackluster performance in a 3-0 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. "At least we didn't get booed out again," Rask said after Sunday's victory tightened the Bruins' grasp on the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Rangers, who generated few solid scoring chances, cut it to 2-1 with 3:04 remaining on a goal by Michael Del Zotto. They pulled goalie Henrik Lundqvist and swarmed around Rask in an effort to tie the game. But they fell short. Rask finished with 23 saves.

Analysis: Rask has played very well since taking over the No. 1 spot from Tim Thomas on Feb. 4. "I can't even remember when we won the last game 2-1," he said, "but it's something the team needs. We need these tight games and we need to win them. I think that's going to help us." It seems as though Boston is ready to move ahead as a franchise with Rask as its top netminder. Now, they just have to find someone to take Thomas' hefty contract in the offseason. Rask has emerged as a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie. The Bruins TG is also a No. 2 option.

Rask gets no offensive support

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 28 saves during a 3-0 loss to the Penguins on Thursday. Tyler Kennedy scored his 10th goal of the season when he lifted a shot from the right circle over Rask 8:34 into the first period. Alexei Ponikarovsky made it 2-0 with 15 seconds left in the second period when he redirected a shot by Kris Letang. And Michael Rupp finished the scoring 5:14 into the third period when he skated alone up the right and beat Rask to the far side for his 13th goal.

Analysis: The Bruins haven't been a very good offensive team in 2009-10 and their effort can be erratic at times. Rask is a pretty solid option in net, but the wins aren't always there because the lack of offensive support. It seems pretty clear Boston is more comfortable with Rask in net over Tim Thomas, so treat Rask as a No. 2 Fantasy netminder. The Bruins TG is also a No. 2 option.

Rask perfect in relief effort

News:David Clarkson had a goal and an assist as the New Jersey Devils scored three times in the first period against Tim Thomas and held on for a 3-2 victory over the Boston Bruins on Monday night. Thomas didn't make it out for the second period, marking the fifth time this season he has been pulled. The reigning Vezina Trophy winner made only his fifth start in 14 games and dropped his third straight decision (0-2-1). He stopped nine of 12 shots before giving way to Tuukka Rask, stopped all 16 shots he faced.

Analysis: t has been a tough season for Thomas, who appears to have lost his starting job to Rask. Thomas has played a lot after the Olympic break mostly because Rask was hurting for a few games. He is back healthy and performing well in net. Don't be surprised if Boston tries to dump Thomas' big contract in the offseason, so it can make Rask the franchise netminder. Rask could be a decent No. 2 Fantasy goalie down the stretch.

Thomas likely to start Monday

News: According to the Bruins' official Twitter feed, G Tim Thomas was first off the ice at practice Monday, a sign he will likely start in Monday's game at New Jersey.

Analysis: Thomas and Tuukka Rask have been pretty much splitting starts since the Olympic break, with Thomas playing the better hockey. Boston plays four times in Fantasy Week 22 (March 15-21) with back-to-back games on Monday and Tuesday. You have to think Rask will get at least one start in the scoring period, but this situation is a little too tenuous to start either guy outside of average point leagues or super-deep two-goalie formats. The Bruins TG remains a No. 2 Fantasy choice.

Rask falls behind early

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask allowed two first period goals on Saturday and Boston couldn't catch up, as they fell to Montreal 3-2. Rask made 24 saves.

Analysis: Rask has lost two of his last three starts after winning four in a row, which followed six straight losses. To say he's streaky in the New Year is an understatement. He remains a No. 2 Fantasy option, but you'd be wise to monitor his crests and troughs. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Rask returns with win Thursday

News:Tuukka Rask made 31 saves, and Mark Recchi, Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci scored second-period goals to help the Boston Bruins beat the Philadelphia Flyers 5-1 on Thursday night. Rask, who did not play Tuesday because of a knee injury, allowed his only goal to Jeff Carter on a power play 44 seconds into the second period. Rask has won five of his last six starts.

Analysis: Rask has allowed more than two goals just twice in his last eight starts. He has played much better than teammate Tim Thomas, who wasn't dealt at the trade deadline. That does hurt Rask's Fantasy appeal since he will not get full-time starts. He might be the Bruins' top goalie at this time, so consider using Rask as a No. 2 Fantasy option when healthy. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Rask doesn't return Tuesday

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask did not play in Tuesday's 4-3 loss to the Maple Leafs. He's been bothered by a knee injury and hasn't played since March 2.

Analysis: Tim Thomas is 2-2 while Rask has been out, so now Fantasy owners have some decisions to make regarding these two. Only use Rask or Thomas in average point leagues until this situation sorts itself, which is no guarantee. The Bruins TG remains a No. 2 option.

Rask ready to return to action

News: The Boston Herald reports that Bruins G Tuukka Rask (knee) practiced on Sunday and should be at full strength Monday.

Analysis: Well, this really throws a wrench into the whole Boston goalie situation for Week 21 (March 8-14). Tim Thomas played very well while Rask was out, so now Fantasy owners have some decisions to make regarding these two. Boston plays three times in the scoring period with games on Tuesday at Toronto, Thursday at Philadelphia and Saturday at Montreal. Interestingly, Thomas has a sub-2.00 GAA against two of those three opponents this season, but has struggled against Montreal. Only use Rask or Thomas in average point leagues until this situation sorts itself, which is no guarantee. The Bruins TG remains a No. 2 option.

Thomas solid in loss to Penguins

News: Boston G Tim Thomas stopped 31 of 33 shots on Sunday against the Penguins but his Bruins couldn't muster more than one goal against Marc-Andre Fleury. Thomas, who allowed a Pascal Dupuis goal in the second period and an Evgeni Malkin tally in the third, fell to the Penguins, 2-1. Thomas was making the start as Tuukka Rask was injured with a lower-body issue. Rask is day to day, however.

Analysis: Thomas had won his first two starts in March and has now allowed two goals in all three appearances. His record falls under .500 at 15-16-7 with this loss, however. Thomas got just one start in February as he clearly fell behind Rask on the Boston depth chart, but Rask is hurt at the moment and that gives Thomas a chance to get back in favor a little bit in Beantown. Rask is only day-to-day though, so both Bruins goalies are risky options for Fantasy Week 21 (March 8-14), as neither is guaranteed a certain number of starts. You're better off just avoiding both in anything but average point leagues. The Bruins TG remains a No. 2 Fantasy choice.

Rask expected to start Sunday

News: Boston G Tuukka Rask has been day to day with a knee injury but could finally get back on the ice on Sunday at Pittsburgh, reports the Examiner. Rask was not in goal on Saturday as Tim Thomas got the nod.

Analysis: Rask had got the start in seven straight games in place of the struggling Thomas before getting hurt. He posted a 4-1-2 record over that span and had a shutout with a .931 save percentage. Rask and Thomas could end up splitting the rest of the way. Rask and the Bruins TG have been No. 2 options for a month and half now, while Thomas is more of a No. 3.

Rask day-to-day with lower-body issue

News: NESN.com reports that Bruins G Tuukka Rask will miss Thursday's game vs. Toronto with a lower-body injury and is listed as day-to-day.

Analysis: Rask has been getting all the starts for Boston recently, as he had made seven straight outings before Thursday. Tim Thomas will obviously start in Rask's place for the time being. Hopefully the Finn will be back on either Saturday or Sunday so owners can be spared a lineup headache for Fantasy Week 21 (March 8-14). Rask and the Bruins TG have been No. 2 options for a month and half now, while Thomas, who will make his first start since Feb. 2, should remain a No. 3 unless Rask is out for an extended period.

Rask runs into trouble in 3rd

News: Boston G Tuukka Rask did not have a good first game back after the Olympic break on Tuesday night against the Canadiens. Rask held a 1-0 lead after two periods against Montreal but the third period was a nightmare. Rask couldn't stop anything in the final period as Montreal scored four times to win the game 4-1. Rask managed 28 stops on 32 shots.

Analysis: Rask had won four straight starts before the break and actually looked as hot on Tuesday over the first two periods. Hopefully that sort of play returns in his next start because Tuesday's third period was an abomination. His record falls to 14-8-4 on the year. Rask, if he can snap back, is looking like a super second-half sleeper. The Bruins TG remains a No. 2 option until they start winning more consistently over a lengthy period.

Rask wins fourth straight

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 26 saves in regulation and then won in a shootout as Boston edged the Panthers 3-2 on Saturday night.

Analysis: Rask has now won four straight starts and heads into the break as the hottest goaltender in Boston. Tim Thomas better shape up after the break, otherwise Rask is going to continue to get the majority of the starts for Boston. Rask is looking like a super second-half sleeper right now, so snap him up in deeper leagues. The Bruins TG remains a No. 2 option until they start winning more consistently over a lengthy period.

Rask survives for third straight W

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 31 saves during a 5-4 win against the Lightning on Thursday. Rask was handed a 5-0 lead before Tampa Bay started chipping away. Martin St. Louis scored twice in the final four minutes of the second and Steve Downie cut the lead to one with 3:13 remaining. Rask then held on for a third straight win.

Analysis: Rask allowed more than two goals for the first time in seven appearances, but we will forgive him since he got the win. Boston has used Rask pretty exclusively as of late and there are rumors Boston is open to trading Vezina Trophy winner Tim Thomas. It will be interesting to see what unfurls in the coming weeks. Start adding Rask in deeper formats as a potential sleeper Fantasy option down the stretch. The Bruins TG is a No. 2 option.

Rask wins shootout over Buffalo

News: Boston G Tuukka Rask stopped 43 shots over 45 attempts by the Buffalo Sabres through regulation and overtime on Tuesday and then stopped Drew Stafford's shootout attempt just before David Krejci won the game for the Bruins. Rask allowed the first shootout attempt by Buffalo's Jason Pominville to score but he was stout after that for the win.

Analysis: Rask has now won two straight games for Boston and his record improves to 12-7-4 on the year. Boston has been talking about trading Tim Thomas and that could mean more consistent playing time for Rask. Until that happens, however, Rask is mainly worth stashing in deeper Fantasy leagues. The Bruins TG has slipped down to being a No. 2 option.

Report: Thomas on trade market

News: The Toronto Sun reports that the Bruins might consider trading reigning Vezina Trophy winner Tim Thomas. Two league executives recently told the Sun that Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli had held talks with teams looking for goaltending help. Tuukka Rask made a third straight start on Sunday against Montreal and posted a 3-0 shutout.

Analysis: It's hard to believe Boston is already willing to part with Thomas after he won the top goalie honors in 2008-09 and signed a four-year extension last season. But Rask has been outplaying Thomas for most of the 2009-10 campaign and Boston might be ready to look toward the future. Thomas is 35 years old, but the trouble is that he has a no-trade clause and would have to waive it. Two possible destinations for Thomas could be Chicago and Dallas. It will be interesting to see if Thomas is moved before the March 3 deadline. Perhaps Fantasy owners might want to stash Rask in deeper formats just in case he becomes a full-time starter.

Rask gets much-needed win, shutout

News:Tuukka Rask was pretty much all that stood between Boston and a blown lead. Not to mention a record the Bruins would have wanted no part of. The goalie stopped 36 shots, including 15 in a frantic second period after Boston took an early lead, and the Bruins snapped a 10-game losing streak with a 3-0 win over Montreal on Sunday night. "Our goaltender was unbelievable," coach Claude Julien said. "Whenever they had the great chances, he made the big saves." The Bruins scored a pair of goals 2:24 apart late in the first, including Adam McQuaid's first NHL goal and Sturm's first of two with 3.2 seconds remaining. "It wasn't that big since they didn't score, I could say, but obviously it was a huge goal for us because we got the 2-0 lead," Rask said "And you think it gives you a confidence boost for the second period but I think we kind of slept through the first 10, 15 minutes of the second, but it's always easier to have a two-goal than a one-goal lead."

Analysis: Rask, who recorded his fourth career shutout, made a number of big stops in the second period when Montreal outshot Boston 15-3. "If I sleep, it's going to be on the scoreboard right away so you try be as sharp as possible," Rask said. Rask picked up his first win since Dec. 30. Some of it has been his fault, but most of it has been Boston's poor offensive support. Rask continues to spell Tim Thomas in net, but he remains more of a No. 3 option or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG has slipped down to being a No. 2 option.

Rask remains winless in 2010

Analysis: Rask has only allowed more than two goals once in his last six starts, so you can't fully blame the Finn for his struggles to win a game lately. Saturday's outing was his second in a row, but it really doesn't matter who the Bruins have between the pipes at the moment. Rask remains more of a No. 3 option in deeper leagues than anything, while the Bruins TG is really not worth using in Fantasy play right now.

Rask falls in shootout to Montreal

News:Brian Gionta beat Tuukka Rask for the only goal in a shootout and the Montreal Canadiens sent the free-falling Boston Bruins to their ninth straight loss, 3-2 on Thursday. Gionta put Montreal's third bid past Rask, who made 23 saves. Mark Recchi and Blake Wheeler gave the Bruins a 2-0 lead, but Glen Metropolit and Roman Hamrlik scored 39 seconds apart late in the second period to tie it.

Analysis: Rask's winless streak has reached eight games and he hasn't won since Dec. 30. It has not been a kind start to 2010 for Rask. A lot of it has to do with Boston struggling as a team, especially on offense. Rask still gets to play at least once a week, so treat him as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG has slipped down to being a No. 2 option.

Rask's winless streak at seven

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 21 saves during a 2-1 loss to the Sabres on Friday. Rask made 13 saves over the final two scoreless periods, but Buffalo scored twice in the first and that is all Ryan Miller would need. Rask is winless in his last seven outings.

Analysis: Rask's recent slide has pretty much wiped away his solid start to the season. Ever since the calendar hit 2010, he can't buy a win. It's not totally his fault because Boston is also struggling offensively. Rask remains just a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG has slipped down to being a No. 2 option.

Rask replaces Thomas again

News: Bruins G Tim Thomas was removed from a game for the second time this week as Boston fell 5-1 to the Hurricanes on Sunday evening. Thomas allowed four goals on 15 shots before being relieved by Tuukka Rask midway through the third period. Rask stopped four of the five shots he faced.

Analysis: Thomas had an absolutely awful Fantasy Week 16 (Jan. 18-24), as the Bruins just continue to be mired in a major slump. Don't risk Thomas or Rask in Fantasy play right now, and the Bruins TG is also an undesirable option. Boston only plays twice in Fantasy Week 17 (Jan. 25-31) against the tough Sabres and Kings.

Rask loses game in final minutes

News:R.J. Umberger tipped in Anton Stralman's power-play slap shot past Tuukka Rask with 1:16 remaining, giving the Columbus Blue Jackets a come-from-behind 3-2 victory over the Boston Bruins Thursday night. Rask blew a pair of one-goal leads and allowed Columbus to rally with two third-period scores. He made 22 saves in the loss.

Analysis: Rask is winless in his last five appearances. The sad thing is that it isn't entirely his fault. The Bruins continue to be one of the worst offensive teams in the NHL. Rask has pretty solid numbers across the board and is a great backup netminder to Tim Thomas. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Rask replaces ineffective Thomas

Analysis: With Thomas really struggling at the moment, Rask could be in for a few more starts over the next couple of weeks, but it's not like he's lighting things up either with no wins in three 2010 starts. Rask isn't quite a No. 2 Fantasy option just yet, but keep an eye on his upcoming playing time.

Rask loses game in third period

News:Tuukka Rask made 28 saves for Boston while Vezina Trophy winner Tim Thomas got the night off during a 4-3 loss to the Ducks on Wednesday. Rask had a 3-2 lead after two periods before Anaheim scored twice in the third. Rask is winless in four of his last five appearances.

Analysis: Rask allowed more than three goals in an outing for the first time since Oct. 12. That spanned 16 outings. Rask continues to provide a solid backup presence for Boston. He usually starts about once a week when Thomas is healthy, so Rask is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG is a high-end option.

Rask makes 11 saves in relief

News: Bruins G Tim Thomas stopped 20 of 24 shots before being replaced by Tuukka Rask, who made 11 saves, during a 5-2 loss o the Bruins on Thursday. Thomas held an early 2-0 lead before Chicago tied the game before the end of the first period. Andrew Ladd then had the eventual game winner 1:42 into the second. The only goal Rask allowed was Patrick Kane's shot from the slot that made it 5-2 with just over two minutes left.

Analysis: Rask did an admirable job coming off the bench cold on Thursday. He has had to bail Thomas out on a few occasions in 2009-10 and has been a solid backup netminder. He usually starts about once a week when Thomas is healthy, so Rask is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game.

Rask falls short in comeback attempt

News:Christopher Higgins' tiebreaking goal with 1:29 left past Tuukka Rask rescued the New York Rangers, lifting them to a 3-2 victory over Boston after the Bruins scored twice late in the third period Monday night. The Rangers appeared to be cruising to just their second win in 10 home games when Boston struck for two goals 1:26 apart. New York escaped when Higgins sneaked his fifth of the season past Rask, who stopped 32 shots.

Analysis: Rask allowed more than two goals for the first time in 10 starts on Monday. It's not like he is having a bad run. Rask has been great as a backup netminder to Olympic goalie Tim Thomas. He usually starts about once a week when Thomas is healthy, so Rask is more of a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG has re-emerged as a No. 1 option.

Rask blanks high-scoring Thrashers

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask got his second shutout of the season and blanked the team that was tied for second in goals per game with 3.2 during Wednesday's 4-0 win against the Thrashers. He faced just 18 shots, the fewest allowed by the Bruins this season. Rask won for the third time in four starts.

Analysis: Rask is 10-3-2 as the backup to Tim Thomas, who is expected to start Friday afternoon during the Winter Classic against the Flyers. Rask has really been great as a backup to Thomas, who has dealt with injury and inconsistency. Thomas is finally starting to come around, but Boston is still going to use Rask in order to keep Thomas fresh. Rask is a nice No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG has re-emerged as a No. 1 option.

Rask plays well, but falls to Leafs

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 29 saves Saturday but didn't get any offensive help as Boston fell 2-0 to the Maple Leafs.

Analysis: Rask's last two games, both wins, were against Toronto, but he just couldn't make it a hat trick on Saturday night. Rask continues to back up Tim Thomas in Boston and remains just a No. 3 option in average point leagues for the time being. The Bruins TG is a No. 2 option until the Bruins start to win.

Thomas looks like Monday starter

News: The Boston Globe reports that Bruins G Tim Thomas was first off the ice at the morning skate Monday, a sign he's likely to start against the Flyers.

Analysis: The Bruins play three times in Fantasy Week 11 (Dec. 14-20), with the second two games coming on back-to-back nights. This means that if Thomas plays OK on Monday, he's likely to get at least two starts in the scoring period, leaving one for Tuukka Rask. Start Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy goalie, while Rask should only be used in leagues that use average points. The Bruins TG is also a No. 2 option.

Rask makes 32 saves in win

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 32 saves during a 5-2 win against the Maple Leafs on Thursday. Rask held a 3-0 lead before Mikhail Grabovski scored 18 seconds into the third period. Nikolai Kulemin closed the gap to one a little less than four minutes later, but Rask survived the final onslaught and made 12 key third-period saves. He won a second straight start.

Analysis: Rask hasn't allowed more than two goals in any of his last seven outings. He really stepped up in November when Tim Thomas was ailing and proved he could compete at a high level in the NHL. Unfortunately, Rask is still a backup netminder as long as Thomas is active. Rask remains a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG has emerged again as a high-end Fantasy option.

Rask wins, but shutout ruined late

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask allowed two goals in the last five minutes as Boston routed the Maple Leafs 7-2 on Saturday. Rask made 31 saves.

Analysis: Rask continues to out-play Tim Thomas in Boston, but it's going to take an extended period of futility from the Vezina winner before Rask is handed more starts than he has been getting. Continue to stash Rask away in deeper formats as a No. 3 goalie or start him in average point leagues. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Rask replaces ineffective Thomas

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask replaced an ineffective Tim Thomas after two periods of Friday's 5-1 loss to the Canadiens. Rask stopped all six shots he faced.

Analysis: Rask has played a lot better than Thomas this season, but the B's have found it hard to keep the reigning Vezina Trophy off the ice. Continue to stash Rask away in deeper formats as a No. 3 goalie or start him in average point leagues.

Rask falls in shootout to Devils

News: Devils forwards Jamie Langenbrunner and Zach Parise scored shootout goals past Tuukka Rask during a 2-1 win Friday against the Bruins. With the shootout tied 1-1 after Parise's and Blake Wheeler's goals, Langenbrunner beat Rask between the pads. "He kind of was biting on that first shot a little bit. First move, I guess," Langenbrunner said. Rask made 36 saves before the shootout.

Analysis: The loss snapped a four-game winning streak for Rask, who has been filling in for an injured Tim Thomas. Coach Claude Julien said Friday that Thomas is close to returning from his undisclosed injury, so Rask's time in net could be running out. The Bruins still might throw Rask a start every week once Thomas is 100 percent, so he remains a decent No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Rask continues winning for Thomas

News: Boston G Tuukka Rask got the start on Wednesday against the Wild with Tim Thomas still ailing from a hand injury. Thomas was listed as probable but was held out for at least one more game. Rask did well with the start and won the game in a shootout 2-1. Rask allowed just one goal in the 2nd period for the entire game and made 28 saves through regulation and overtime.

Analysis: The win improves Rask's record to 7-2-1 on the season as he's been excellent in Thomas' stead. He has now won four straight starts and has allowed at most three goals in any of those games. Consider him a nice stopgap Fantasy option for the time being, but he is usually a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option. Thomas, when healthy, is a must-start option.

Rask a winner in three straight

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 29 saves during a 4-2 win against the Blues on Monday. Rask blew a pair of one-goal leads in the first two periods before Boston put away St. Louis in the third period with a short-handed score from Marco Sturm. Rask made 12 saves during a scoreless third for his third straight win and fifth in six outings.

Analysis: Rask has made four straight starts while Tim Thomas is resting a lower-body injury. Thomas is in uniform as a backup and could play at any time, but Boston might continue to ride the hot hand of Rask. Consider him a nice stopgap Fantasy option for the time being, but he is usually a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Coach praises Rask after win

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 25 saves as Boston rallied from a 1-0 deficit during Friday's 2-1 overtime win against the Sabres. Some of Rask's best saves included a point-blank stop on Thomas Vanek three minutes into the third, and a blocker stop on Jochen Hecht's snap shot from the left circle with about four minutes remaining. "Every game, (Rask) has gotten better and better," Boston coach Claude Julien said. "We're in real good shape there, when you've got a young goalie like him coming up big for us."

Analysis: Rask has started the last three games for Boston has Tim Thomas has dealt with a minor undisclosed ailment. He has won two straight starts and four of five outings. Rask is a solid backup netminder and is going to see a decent amount of starts for Boston. But he is best used when Thomas is on the mend. Rask remains more of a flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Rask ekes out win in shootout

News:Tuukka Rask stopped all three Atlanta skaters in the shootout, turning aside shots by Rich Peverley, Slava Kozlov and Ilya Kovalchuk as Boston prevailed, 4-3 on Thursday. Boston took a 2-0 lead before the Thrashers stormed back in the second. Nik Antropov redirected a shot from Tobias Enstrom past Rask for his first goal of the season. Kovalchuk tied the game at 2 with a perfectly placed shot into the upper left corner off a pass from Enstrom, who picked up his second assist. The Bruins were less than a minute away from a regulation win, leading 3-2 when Atlanta pulled Ondrej Pavelec for the extra skater. Kovalchuk managed to keep the puck in the Boston zone, wheeled around and whipped a cross-ice pass to Maxim Afinogenov, the puck just missing the stick of flailing Bruins defender. Afinogenov had time to settle the puck and rip a shot past Rask, just inside the far post for his eighth goal of the season. The Thrashers had the best chances in overtime but couldn't beat Rask. Ditto for the shootout. Rask finished with 32 saves.

Analysis: Rask also started on Monday for the Bruins, keeping Tim Thomas on the bench for a second straight game. But Fantasy owners shouldn't get any ideas. Claude Julien does like to play his backup goalies and sometimes gives no rhyme or reason why Rask might get consecutive starts. Rask remains more of a flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Rask drops game to Islanders

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 17 saves during a 4-1 loss to the Islanders on Monday. Matt Moulson was a one-man wrecking crew as he scored New York's first two goals. Moulson made it 2-1 after Rask played the puck behind the net and sent it along the right boards. It was picked off by Richard Park near the circle and quickly centered to Moulson, who redirected it past Rask as he tried to get back in position. New York added two more goals in the third to finish off the win. Rask saw a two-game win streak end.

Analysis: Rask arguably had one of his worst performances of the season on Monday. The only other game that comes close was his other regulation loss to Colorado on Oct. 12. Rask has been pretty solid as a backup to Tim Thomas, but he is still not ready to dethrone the Bruins' top netminder. Rask remains more of a flier in Fantasy leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option.

Rask expected to start Monday

News: The Boston Globe reports that Bruins G Tuukka Rask was first off the ice Monday at the morning skate, an indication that he is likely to start this evening against the Islanders.

Analysis: Boston plays three times this week, so it looks like Tim Thomas will only make two starts at most in Fantasy Week 7 (Nov. 16-22). Thomas let in six goals in his most recent outing, so if Rask plays well on Monday, he could get another look on Thursday at Atlanta, leaving Thomas with just one start in the scoring period. Start Rask in leagues that use average points per game, while owners in smaller one-goalie leagues might want to bench Thomas.

Rask improves to 3-1-1 on season

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask made 28 saves Saturday as Boston defeated the Sabres 4-2. Rask's record improves to 3-1-1 with the victory.

Analysis: Rask, who just signed a two-year extension on Thursday, is one of the NHL's best backups. He's not owned in 28 percent of leagues by accident. If Tim Thomas stays healthy and consistent, Rask's starts will be limited, but he's still worth owning in deeper formats or as a handcuff to Thomas. The Bruins TG is more of a No. 2 option for now until Boston start to win more consistently.

Rask signs extension with Boston

News: The Boston Bruins have signed backup goalie Tuukka Rask to a two-year contract extension that will keep him with the team through the 2011-12 season. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed on Thursday.

Analysis: The 22-year-old Finn has appeared in nine NHL games with a 5-2-2 record and 2.43 goals-against average as Tim Thomas' backup. Rask shut out the Edmonton Oilers 2-0 in his last start on Saturday. Rask spent most of the last two seasons with Providence of the AHL, posting a 60-33-6 record and five shutouts in 102 appearances. Rask might be the future in net for Boston, but Thomas is signed for the next four seasons, so a lot of things need to fall into place before Rask takes on a starring role. View him as a No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game.

Bruins re-sign Rask for two years

News: The Bruins have re-signed G Tuukka Rask to a two-year contract extension.

Analysis: Rask has appeared in four games this season, recording a 2-1-1 record with a 2.41 goals against average. He is a solid backup, but is only worth using in Fantasy leagues that reward average points in weeks when the Bruins have four games or back-to-back contests.

Rask picks up 2nd career shutout

News: Rookie Tuukka Rask turned aside 18 shots for his second shutout in eight NHL starts to lead the Boston Bruins to a 2-0 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday. Rask was locked in a scoreless duel with veteran Nikolai Khabibulin until Blake Wheeler converted at 2:47 into the third period. Rask was making his fourth start of the season. He gave Boston its third straight shutout of Edmonton and the Bruins' eighth win in a row over the Oilers, dating back to 2000. He had blanked the New York Rangers in his only start last season. Rask was not really tested much in the win.

Analysis: Rask is now 2-1-1 in four starts on the season. This was the first time he'd allowed fewer than three goals to score in a game. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG has dropped to a No. 2 option since Boston has gotten off to a sluggish start.

Rask beaten by nifty shootout move

News:Claude Giroux fooled Boston goalie Tuukka Rask with a backhand-to-forehand move, then Michael Ryder's wrist shot hit the post on Boston' final attempt, giving the Flyers a 4-3 victory over the Bruins on Thursday night. "We practiced it a couple of times, and I thought I'd try it," Giroux said. "If it didn't work, I would've looked stupid, but it worked." A quiet five-minute overtime sent the teams into a shootout. Danny Briere's attempt missed wide right and Rask stopped a shot by Mike Richards. For Boston, Ray Emery denied Blake Wheeler and Patrice Bergeron. Flyers coach John Stevens selected Giroux, and the right wing didn't disappoint. He entered that appearance 0-for-3 in his career. "I think the kid flourishes in that spotlight there," Stevens said. Rask, who made 36 saves, had little chance. "He has good hands," he said. "I played against him in the minors. ... I had no idea what he was going to do. He made a good move."

Analysis: Rask is winless in his last two appearances and has allowed three or more goals in all three of his 2009-10 outings. The Bruins realize it will take Rask a few outings to get adjusted to life in the NHL, but they aren't giving up on the talented prospect. Rask is behind Tim Thomas on the depth chart, but should see a fair amount of starts. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy goalie or flier in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG has dropped to a No. 2 option since Boston has gotten off to a sluggish start.

Rask drops home decision to Avalanche

Analysis: Rask earned himself a second straight start Monday after playing pretty well in Saturday's 4-3 win over the Islanders. He might get another late in Fantasy Week 2 (Oct. 12-18) as the Bruins play back-to-back on Friday and Saturday, but he still remains a backup to Tim Thomas. Rask remains worth owning in deeper leagues as a handcuff to Thomas, and can also be of use in leagues that use average points per game. The Bruins TG remains an elite option.

Rask gets late offensive help in win

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask got three third-period goals and two scores in a shootout from his teammates as Boston edged the Islanders 4-3 on Saturday. Rask made 35 saves in the win.

Analysis: Rask backs up Tim Thomas in Boston and remains worth owning in deeper leagues as a handcuff to the Bruins' No. 1. He can also be of use in leagues that use average points per game in weeks when Boston plays back-to-back games or four times. The Bruins TG remains an elite option.

Sabourin optioned; Rask staying

News: On Saturday, the Bruins promoted director of hockey operations Don Sweeney to assistant general manager and also announced they had trimmed the roster down to 24 by sending 10 players, including goalie Dany Sabourin, to Providence of the American Hockey League. That means Tuukka Rask will back up Tim Thomas in net.

Analysis: We fully expected Rask to open the season as the Bruins backup goalie since he has pretty much done all the can in the minors. He will definitely see time in net for Boston, so consider him a nice No. 3 Fantasy goalie and flier in leagues that use average points per game. Sabourin is nothing more than organizational depth and has minimal Fantasy appeal as he is third on the team's depth chart. The Bruins TG has high-end Fantasy appeal.

Rask sent back to AHL

Analysis: Rask, regarded as the Bruins' goalie of the future, is certainly a skilled goalie but there's simply no room for him when Fernandez is healthy and ready to get back to work. The Bruins TG is obviously one of your best options in Fantasy.

Rask has shutout in season debut

News: Bruins backup G Tuukka Rask made the most of his first start in nearly 14 months. The 21-year-old Finn stopped 35 shots for his first NHL shutout in his fourth start for the Bruins and Marc Savard scored to give Boston a 1-0 victory over the Rangers on Saturday. "You don't want to fail because if you fail you don't know when you're going to get another chance," Rask said after making 15 saves in the third period to become the third Bruins goalie to record a shutout this season. "If you do good, you've shown that you're capable of playing at this level."

Analysis: Rask, regarded as the Bruins' goalie of the future, was playing in his first NHL game since Dec. 6, 2007, because an injury to Manny Fernandez had forced Tim Thomas to play the previous eight games. Rask raised his NHL record to 3-1-1 in recording his first win since Nov. 26, 2007. "He's obviously a highly skilled goaltender and we had a lot of confidence going in knowing that he was going to do a great job," said defenseman Dennis Wideman. "Did we know he was going to do that great of a job? No, but that's great for him." Rask is certainly a skilled goalie but there's simply no room for him when Fernandez is healthy and ready to get back to work. The Bruins TG is obviously one of your best options in Fantasy.

Bruins call up Rask

News: The Bruins have recalled G Tuukka Rask on an emergency basis from the AHL. The move was necessitated when Manny Fernandez missed practice Monday with back spasms.

Analysis: Rask is a capable backup and a solid keeper option, but he's unlikely to get many starts over Tim Thomas while up with the Bruins and will be sent back once Fernandez is healthy again. Ignore Rask in seasonal leagues.

Bruins make roster moves Monday

News: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli announced Monday that defenseman Matt Lashoff and goaltender Kevin Regan were assigned to the Providence Bruins of the AHL. They also recalled goaltender Tuukka Rask and forward Martin St. Pierre from the Providence on an emergency basis.

Analysis: Lashoff is one of the Bruins' top defensive prospect, but he is just organizational depth at this time. Rask is also a top prospect, but is up because Manny Fernandez is battling an undisclosed ailment. He will be back in the minors shortly. Those two primarily have Fantasy value in long-term keeper leagues, while St. Pierre and Regan has little to no value.

Fernandez day-to-day; Rask up

News: The Boston Herald reports that Bruins G Manny Fernandez is day-to-day with an undisclosed injury. He was replaced on the bench by Tuukka Rask for Saturday's game vs. Carolina.

Analysis: Fernandez has been playing very well lately and this injury doesn't seem too serious, but you never know. Keep an eye on his status heading into Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 12-18), as he might be just worth leaving on your bench because the Bruins are probably going to be very careful with him. Rask will just back up Tim Thomas. The Bruins TG remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy option.

Rask still strong for Providence (AHL)

News: Bruins goalie prospect Tuukka Rask has just two wins in six December outings for Providence of the AHL, but has managed one shutout, a 1.70 GAA and .930 save percentage. For the season he is 11-8-0 with two shutouts, 2.27 GAA and .922 save percentage.

Analysis: Rask, the Bruins' first-round pick from 2005, won't be back in the NHL until something happens to Tim Thomas or Manny Fernandez. Both goalies are holding down the fort for the time being, so Rask remains just a long-term Fantasy keeper.

Rask around .500 in minors

News: Bruins goalie prospect Tuukka Rask continues to start for Providence of the AHL. He is 6-5-0 with a 2.78 GAA and .909 save percentage in his first 11 games. He also has a pair of assists.

Analysis: Rask, the Bruins' first-round pick from 2005, won't be back in the NHL until something happens to Tim Thomas or Manny Fernandez. Both goalies are holding down the fort for the time being, so Rask remains just a long-term Fantasy keeper.

Rask add 10 pounds in offseason

News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins G Tuukka Rask, expected to spend most of the season at Providence (AHL), has bulked up with 10 pounds.

Analysis: Rask is once again third on the depth chart after Alex Auld left for Ottawa and Manny Fernandez returned from a knee injury that kept him most of 2007-08. Rask, who is also behind Tim Thomas, should see time in 2008-09, but it might not be much unless a trade or injury occurs. He is nothing more than a long-term Fantasy keeper.

Rask sent down after game

News: The Bruins recalled G Tuukka Rask from Providence (AHL) Saturday and he dressed as the backup to Tim Thomas in a 4-3 win against the Devils. G Alex Auld's wife, Mel, gave birth to their first child -- a 6-pound, 9-ounce boy, Sam Alexander, early Saturday morning.

Analysis: Rask was 2-1-1 with a 3.26 GAA and .886 save percentage with the Bruins before Auld was acquired in a trade. Rask was sent back to Providence after the game. He is nothing more than a long-term Fantasy keeper.

Rask sent to develop in AHL

News:The Sports Xchange reports Bruins G Tuukka Rask was sent back to Providence (AHL), where he will continue to develop as the goalie of the future. He was no longer needed when Tim Thomas came off injured reserve Saturday.

Analysis: Rask was 2-1-1 with a 3.26 GAA and .886 save percentage with the Bruins. He will only return to the NHL if an injury befalls either Thomas or Alex Auld. He is nothing more than a long-term Fantasy keeper at this time.

Rask loses to Habs Thursday

News: Goalie prospect Tuuka Rask, forced into the starting role with Tim Thomas sidelined by an apparent groin injury, allowed four goals on 30 shots in a loss to Montreal Thursday. "It's hard to bounce back from 3-0 down," Rask said. "We weren't ready enough to play this game, but you can't hide behind it being the third game in four nights."

Analysis: Rask remains a low-end Fantasy option at this time until further notice. The Bruins TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.

Rask picks up first loss

News:Tuukka Rask picked up his first NHL loss in a most-unusual manner Wednesday night. The 20-year-old goalie of the future had to relieve an injured Tim Thomas with 1:10 left in regulation of a tie game and then gave up the OT goal to Patrik Elias with 1:44 left in the extra session as the Devils extended their winning streak to eight games; and spoiled the return to New Jersey of former Devils coach Claude Julien, now running the Bruins.

Analysis: So, Rask played 4:26, gave up one goal, through a screen, and dropped to 2-1 as an NHL goaltender. "Rask was in a tough position," said Julien. "Don't blame him for that last goal." Rask remains a low-end Fantasy option at this time until further notice. The Bruins TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.

Rask loses during relief outing

News: Bruins G Tuukka Rask came in for Tim Thomas on Wednesday against the Devils after the starter fell awkwardly while trying to snare a deflected shot with 1:10 left in regulation and had to leave the game. Thomas made 28 saves and allowed three goals before leaving the game. Rask made two saves and allowed the game-winning goal to Patrick Elias in overtime.

Analysis: Thomas has been seeing the majority of Boston, but if this injury turns out to be serious, it will present a perfect chance for the Bruins to activate Manny Fernandez (knee, back) off IR. There is very little chance that the Bruins will trust their season to a rookie like Rask. Rask remains a low-end Fantasy option at this time until further notice. The Bruins TG is a No. 2 Fantasy option.

Rookie Rask wins again

News: Boston rookie goaltender Tuukka Rask had 20 saves to pick up his second victory in two starts. He allowed three goals in the win.

Analysis: G Tim Thomas had started 12 of the previous 13 games but did not play Monday. With Manny Fernandez still sidelined with back spasms, Rask will remain Thomas' backup for the time being. He's still a very good prospect to hold onto in keeper leagues. Thomas remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy option, as is the Bruins TG.

Rookie Rask wins for B's

News:Tuukka Rask remembers the phone call that told him his days with the Toronto Maple Leafs were over. It came on June 24, 2006, just one year after the Finnish goalie was drafted by Toronto in the first round. He was dealt to the Boston Bruins for goalie Andrew Raycroft. "It was during the biggest midsummer party in Finland," Rask recalled. "It was 2 a.m., so you can imagine how I felt when they called me. Next day I was kind of surprised and realized what happened." Rask showed the Maple Leafs on Tuesday night just what they got rid of when he earned his first NHL win in his first start, lifting the Boston Bruins to a 4-2 victory over Toronto. Boston's 20-year-old goalie made 30 saves and was chosen as top star of the game.

Analysis: "Of course it means a lot," Rask said of beating the Leafs. "It was fun to play, to show them that I'm good enough to play at this level." Tim Thomas had started 10 straight games before giving way to Rask, who was 7-2 with a 2.10 goals-against average in nine AHL games at Providence this season. Boston G Manny Fernandez, out since Oct. 30 with a knee injury, is expected to be activated Wednesday. Rask will likely be sent back to the minors at some point this month. He's still a very good prospect to hold onto in keeper leagues.

Rask might soon be in net

News:The Sports Xchange reports G Tuukka Rask could get his first NHL start when the Bruins visit Toronto Tuesday. He was acquired by the Bruins form the Leafs in the deal that sent G Andrew Raycroft to Toronto.

Analysis: Rask has a 7-1 record with a 1.98 goals-against average for Providence this season. A native of Finland, Rask was the 21st overall pick by Toronto in the 2005 draft and traded to Boston in June 2006 in exchange for goalie Andrew Raycroft. Rask is a great looking prospect in all long-term Fantasy keeper leagues. However, he is likely to spend more time at the AHL than the NHL level this season.

Rask called up Thursday

Analysis: Rask has a 7-1 record with a 1.98 goals-against average for Providence this season. A native of Finland, Rask was the 21st overall pick by Toronto in the 2005 draft and traded to Boston in June 2006 in exchange for goalie Andrew Raycroft. Rask is a great looking prospect in all long-term Fantasy keeper leagues. However, he is likely to spend more time at the AHL than the NHL level this season.

Rask could start on Thursday

News: G Tuukka Rask, the future in goal, was recalled from Providence and dressed as Tim Thomas' backup Wednesday night. There was speculation he would start Thursday night against Montreal. G Manny Fernandez remained out with a left knee strain that is considered day to day.

Analysis: Rask is a great looking prospect in all long-term Fantasy keeper leagues. However, unless Manny Fernandez or Tim Thomas suffer a long-term injury, he is likely to spend more time at the AHL than the NHL level.

Prospect G Rask sent to minors

News: The Boston Bruins returned prospect goaltender Tuukka Rask to Providence of the AHL on Wednesday. Rask was acquired last offseason from the Toronto Maple Leafs for goaltender Andrew Raycroft.

Analysis: Rask is a great looking prospect in all long-term Fantasy keeper leagues. However, unless Manny Fernandez or Tim Thomas suffer a long-term injury, he is likely to spend more time at the AHL than the NHL level.